A 28-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with the death of Ann Widdecombe, a former politician found dead at her home in Devon. The alarm was raised by producers after Widdecombe stopped responding to text messages and calls before her scheduled appearance on a show. Officers were called to her home, where they found the 78-year-old woman deceased with serious injuries.
Counter Terrorism Policing has taken over the investigation into Widdecombe's death, following the discovery of new information and evidence. The 28-year-old suspect, who is from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, has been re-arrested on suspicion of commission, preparation, or instigation of acts of terrorism. He has been in police custody for over 36 hours.
Footage has emerged showing the moment officers arrived at the suspect's home to arrest him. Several unmarked and marked police cars were involved in the operation, with officers using battering rams to open the door. Neighbors of the suspect have described him as a loner who became more reclusive after the death of his father last year.
A neighbor reported seeing the suspect leave his home with a pole or metal bar hidden under his t-shirt before driving away, sometime before Widdecombe's death. The police are pursuing multiple lines of inquiry to establish the motivation for the attack. The Home Secretary has announced that she will update MPs on the investigation later, and her thoughts are with Widdecombe's family and friends.
Devon and Cornwall Police have issued a plea to end speculation surrounding the death, which they describe as distressing. The investigation is ongoing, with Counter Terrorism Policing working closely with colleagues from the Devon and Cornwall Police Major Crime Investigation Team. Widdecombe's home has been cordoned off as the investigation continues.
The suspect's arrest and the investigation into Widdecombe's death have sparked widespread interest and concern. The police are working to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident, and the Home Secretary has promised to provide further updates as more information becomes available.
