Man, 26, arrested on suspicion of murder of Ann Widdecombe as police issue new details
A 26-year-old man has been arrested in connection with Ann Widdecombe's death, as police launch a murder investigation.
Addressing reporters at a press conference, Devon and Cornwall Police Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman said that a 26-year-old White British man had been arrested at an address in Newton Abbot on suspicion of murder.
It was previously reported that Widdecombe, a former Conservative MP, was found dead in her home in Dartmoor, Devon yesterday (9 July), with a police statement saying the 78-year-old had sustained 'serious injuries'.
Longman added that Widdecombe's death was not being treated as terrorism.
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"Detectives from the force major crime investigation team have launched a murder investigation, and are conducting extensive inquiries into the circumstances surrounding Ms Widdecombe’s death," he said.
He added that there was also 'no indication to believe it was politically motivated' at this time.
Longman also urged people not to speculate about Widdecombe's death online, with anyone who has relevant information instead urged to come forward.
"I would appeal to anyone who may have information about this incident, however insignificant it may seem, to come forward and speak with us," he said
"I would ask people not to speculate about what might have happened, particularly on social media.
"That’s not only potentially harmful to our investigation, but also deeply distressing to the family and friends of Ms Widdecombe."
A police cordon remains in place outside of Widdecombe's home while officers continue forensic examinations at the property. Road closures are also in place across the area.
"This is an extremely tragic incident," he added. "Our thoughts are very much with the family and friends of Miss Widdecombe in this very difficult time."
A previous statement shared by Detective Chief Inspector Ilona Rosson earlier in the day called Widdecombe's death 'extremely tragic', adding that an enquiry was 'moving at a significant pace'.
"This is an extremely tragic incident and our thoughts are very much with the family and friends of Ann Widdecombe at this difficult time," she said.
"Our murder enquiry is in its early stages but moving at a significant pace. We are deploying all of the necessary resources to find out exactly what has happened and to locate the person responsible who we believe to be a white male.
"I would appeal to anyone who may have information about this incident, however insignificant it may seem, to come forward and speak with us.
"We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have seen anything suspicious in the vicinity of Haytor Vale, Haytor, or anyone with CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage which could assist with our investigation."
The statement continued: "We have an increased uniformed police presence in the area to both support the investigation and provide reassurance to residents. Anyone with concerns can speak with our officers at the scene.
"We will release further information when we are able to do so. In the meantime I would ask people not to speculate about what might have happened, particularly on social media. This is not only potentially harmful to our investigation but also deeply distressing for family and friends of Ann Widdecombe."
Responding to the news, Prime Minister Keir Starmer refused to speculate on the specifics of Widdecombe's death, urging the public to come together and help police apprehend the 'clearly dangerous' suspect.
"He’s clearly dangerous, and I implore everybody who’s got any information in relation to him to help the police with their inquiries, get him into police custody," he said.
"Ann Widdecombe was a very fun and feisty woman who spoke her mind and she was 78-years-old, she was an elderly woman," Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said of the news.
"I don’t understand how someone could do something so horrific to an elderly person. It was a nasty, horrific attack and my heart is breaking for her family."
Brenna Cooper