26-Year-Old Arrested in Shocking Murder of Former MP Ann Widdecombe

A 26-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the murder of former MP Ann Widdecombe, who was found dead at her property in Haytor, Dartmoor. The police launched a major manhunt for a white male before making the arrest.

Devon and Cornwall Police initiated a murder investigation after discovering Miss Widdecombe deceased at 11:40 AM on Thursday. The circumstances surrounding her death are grim, as she suffered serious injuries.

At a press conference, Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman confirmed that the suspect is a British national. He stated that the investigation is not being treated as terror-related.

Miss Widdecombe had appeared on Talk Radio just a day prior to her death. The police confirmed that the suspect was apprehended at an address in Newton Abbot.

Longman stated, “A 26-year-old man was arrested in Newton Abbot this afternoon on suspicion of the murder of Ann Widdecombe. The suspect remains in police custody while inquiries continue.”

He reiterated that the investigation does not involve terrorism. Detectives from the major crime investigation team are conducting extensive inquiries into the circumstances surrounding her death.

Longman added, “While we work closely with our partners and consulted counter-terrorism policing as part of our initial inquiries, the incident is not being treated as terrorism.”

A cordon remains in place at the property, with forensic examinations ongoing. Road closures are in effect around the scene, and significant police activity is expected as detectives conduct house-to-house and CCTV inquiries.

Longman described the incident as extremely tragic and expressed condolences to Miss Widdecombe’s family and friends during this difficult time.

Police have stated they have no reason to believe the murder was politically motivated. Miss Widdecombe, 78, had a long political career, later becoming a Brexit Party MEP and a spokesperson for Reform UK. She gained additional fame by participating in Strictly Come Dancing.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer commented on the investigation, expressing shock and extending thoughts to Miss Widdecombe’s family. He emphasized the importance of public assistance in identifying the suspect.

Starmer stated, “This is really shocking news... it’s a huge, huge loss.” He urged anyone with information to help police apprehend the suspect quickly.

Potential future Labour Leader Andy Burnham also expressed condolences through a spokesperson, highlighting Miss Widdecombe’s lifetime of public service and the need for a swift police investigation.

Miss Widdecombe’s management firm Cloud 9 expressed devastation over the news and urged anyone with information to contact the police. They emphasized their support for the ongoing investigation while requesting privacy for the family during this challenging time.

The police have established a Major Incident Public Portal for information submissions related to the case. They encourage anyone with relevant details to reach out via phone or through their website, quoting reference 50260179119 and Operation Hunlen.

Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or through their website.