Here’s everything we know about the murder investigation into the death of Ann Widdecombe so far after she died today aged 78.
The news of her death was confirmed by her management on Friday (10 July) who said that the former MP and MEP died on Friday morning, adding that she would be missed “greatly”.
There was no indication of any foul play at this time.
However, things appear to have taken a turn after it was reported this afternoon, just after 15:00 BST, it was revealed that police were investigating her death.
At about 15:45, it was confirmed that the police were treating Widdecombe’s death as murder.
A statement from Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed the investigation saying “police officers were called to an address at Haytor [in Dartmoor] by the ambulance service at around 11.40am on Thursday 9 July.”
It added that Widdecombe was found already deceased and had sustained serious injuries.
They added that they believe the suspect is a “white male” and were looking for CCTV or video doorbell footage to aid in their hunt.
During the press conference given this evening by Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman, he confirmed that a 26-year-old white, British man had been arrested on suspicion of murder.
He said: “We can confirm that a 26-year-old man was arrested at an address in Newton Abbot this afternoon on suspicion of the murder of Ann Widdicombe.”
He said there is no reason to believe the crime was politically motivated, while would not comment if the suspect was known to Widdecombe.
Both Kemi Badenoch and Keir Starmer later released statements, however, there have been indication about the nature of the murder of if it was politically motivated.
Police have continued to ask people not to speculate about the investigation.
The full police statement read: “A murder investigation has been launched following the suspicious death of former MP Ann Widdecombe at her home on Dartmoor in Devon.
“Police officers were called to an address at Haytor by the ambulance service at around 11.40am on Thursday 9 July.
“Sadly, 78-year-old Miss Widdecombe was located deceased within the property. She had sustained serious injuries.
“Her next-of-kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.”
Detective Chief Inspector Ilona Rosson said: “This is an extremely tragic incident and our thoughts are very much with the family and friends of Ann Widdecombe at this difficult time.
“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.
“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.”