Ann Widdecombe Found Dead at Devon Home, 26-Year-Old Arrested
Former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe has been found dead at her home in Devon, and police have arrested a 26-year-old man on suspicion of murder.
Devon and Cornwall Police said the 78-year-old was discovered with fatal injuries at her property in Haytor Vale on Thursday. Officers have opened a murder investigation and say the suspect remains in custody.
Police said there is currently no indication that the killing was politically motivated or connected to terrorism. Still, detectives also made clear that the case is in its early stages and that all lines of inquiry remain open.
The suspect was arrested in Newton Abbot, around 11 miles from Widdecombe’s home. Investigators are continuing to gather evidence and have asked the public to come forward with any information that may help.
https://x.com/SkyNews/status/2075625086871109949?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
Widdecombe was one of the most recognizable conservative figures in British public life. She served as the Conservative MP for Maidstone and The Weald from 1987 to 2010, building a reputation as blunt, witty, and unafraid to defend her views.
After leaving Parliament, she stayed active in politics and public debate. She was a strong supporter of Brexit and later served as a Member of the European Parliament for the Brexit Party.
Her final media appearance reportedly came during a Wednesday breakfast show interview, where she spoke about public trust and Westminster. In the clip shared by TalkTV, Widdecombe said, “There IS an establishment”.
https://x.com/TalkTV/status/2075597871554888105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
Widdecombe was also well known outside politics. She appeared on Strictly Come Dancing and hosted Ann Widdecombe to the Rescue, a program where she helped people confront problems in their everyday lives.
Tributes began coming in after news of her death spread. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage described Widdecombe as a “force of nature” and praised her years of public service.
https://x.com/Nigel_Farage/status/2075636082394177680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
Political figures from across the spectrum also offered condolences to her family and recognized her long career in public life.
Police are now asking anyone with information, CCTV footage, or dashcam video from the area to contact investigators. Widdecombe’s family is being supported by specialist officers as the investigation continues.