Former Conservative politician Ann Widdecombe died under suspicious circumstances at her home in Devon, triggering a murder investigation by Devon and Cornwall Police. The 78-year-old was found deceased at her property, known as Widdecombe's Rest, with serious injuries.
According to statements from Widdecombe's management, the politician's body was discovered by the ambulance service on Thursday, July 9, after she failed to appear on a Channel 5 show, prompting concerns among the production team. Widdecombe had been communicating with a producer via WhatsApp, exchanging messages about a Zoom link, but her responses became erratic, and she stopped responding altogether.
Devon and Cornwall Police launched a murder investigation, and a manhunt was initiated for a white male suspect. A 26-year-old man was arrested at an address in Newton Abbot, a short drive away from Widdecombe's residence, and later released from custody, as the investigation continues.
The police have revealed that the attack is believed to have taken place on Wednesday, July 8, at around 12:30pm, 24 hours before Widdecombe's body was discovered. The investigation is ongoing, with police urging anyone with information to come forward, particularly those with CCTV footage from the area.
Numerous tributes have poured in for Widdecombe, including from Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, who visited a memorial for the politician at Dartmoor National Park. Farage expressed his shock and sadness over Widdecombe's death, calling it an 'act of barbarity' against an innocent 78-year-old lady.
Widdecombe's management has released a statement, expressing their devastation and support for the police investigation. The family has asked for their wish not to be contacted at this time to be respected.
As the investigation unfolds, police are working to identify those responsible and ensure that all available evidence is thoroughly examined. The local community is reeling from the news, with many expressing shock and sadness over Widdecombe's untimely death.
