Ann Widdecombe murder probe: What we know so far

Ann Widdecombe Murder Probe: What We Know So Far

Ann Widdecombe murder probe - Devon and Cornwall Police have begun investigating the death of Ann Widdecombe, a 78-year-old former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokesperson, following her discovery in a severe condition at her home on Dartmoor. The incident occurred on Thursday morning when ambulance staff were called to the scene in Haytor, a village near Newton Abbot. A 26-year-old white British man has since been taken into custody on suspicion of murder.

Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman of the police force stated at a press conference that there is "no indication this is a politically driven crime" and that the case is not being linked to terrorism. The suspect, arrested in Newton Abbot, remains under detention as authorities continue their inquiries. Details about the circumstances of the incident were initially withheld, with Widdecombe’s management team revealing her death on Friday morning but providing no specifics on the cause or time of death.

Later that day, police released further information, confirming the murder probe and identifying the suspect. The management team followed up with a statement expressing deep sorrow, calling the news "traumatic and upsetting" after a "very difficult 24 hours" for the family.

Widdecombe, who had served as an MP for Maidstone in Kent for over two decades, held key roles in the Home Office and employment sectors during John Major’s government from 1994 to 1997. She later became an MEP for the Brexit Party, representing South West England in the European Parliament from 2019 to 2020, before joining Reform UK in 2023 as a spokesperson for immigration and justice policies.

Political figures have expressed condolences, with Starmer describing the news as "shocking" and urging unity. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called Widdecombe’s death "stunning," while Reform UK’s Nigel Farage and Andy Burnham also offered their support. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood asked the public to "avoid speculation" to let the investigation proceed unhindered.

Widdecombe was born in Bath, Somerset, in 1947. She studied Latin at Birmingham University and later pursued philosophy, politics, and economics at Oxford. After leaving Parliament, she entered the entertainment industry, participating in shows like Strictly Come Dancing in 2010 and Celebrity Big Brother in 2018. Her dance partner on Strictly, Anton Du Beke, shared his grief in a video: "We had an incredible time together," he said. "This is the saddest news."

“We know this news will come as a great shock to the many colleagues and friends she made along the way.”

A significant number of police vehicles remain stationed outside her residence, with a BBC reporter noting the presence of multiple cars and a van near the driveway. Officers initially described the suspect as a white male, emphasizing the case was progressing swiftly.