Devon and Cornwall Police are conducting a major murder investigation after the death of former Member of Parliament Ann Widdecombe. The 78-year-old politician and television personality was found dead at her home in Haytor, Devon, on Thursday, July 9, 2026. Emergency services discovered her body with serious injuries at approximately 11:40 a.m. after she failed to attend a scheduled television interview. Investigators believe the attack occurred around 12:30 p.m. on the previous day, Wednesday, July 8.
Authorities initially arrested a 26-year-old man in connection with the incident, but he was released shortly after and is no longer considered part of the investigation. On Saturday, police confirmed they had arrested a 28-year-old man in South Yorkshire on suspicion of murder. He remains in police custody as detectives continue to gather evidence. The investigation is moving at a significant pace, though officials have stated there is currently no information to suggest the death was politically motivated or linked to terrorism.
Widdecombe served as a Conservative MP from 1987 to 2010, holding roles including prisons minister. In later years, she became a prominent figure for the Brexit Party and Reform UK, while also gaining widespread public recognition through appearances on reality programs such as Strictly Come Dancing. Her death has prompted expressions of shock from across the political spectrum. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has urged the public to support the police investigation and avoid speculation. As the inquiry proceeds, detectives are working to establish a timeline and determine the circumstances surrounding the attack in the rural Dartmoor community.