Devon community in shock as police make arrest in Ann Widdecombe murder investigation
Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News
A 26-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder following the death of former MP Ann Widdecombe at her home near Haytor, as detectives continue a major investigation in one of Devon’s most high-profile criminal inquiries in recent years.
Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed the suspect, a white British man, was arrested at an address in Newton Abbot on Friday afternoon. He remains in police custody while officers continue their enquiries.
Miss Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her rural home, Widdecombe’s Rest, after emergency services were called to the property at around 11.40am on Thursday, 9th July. Police said she had sustained serious injuries.
A murder investigation was launched shortly afterwards, with detectives from the Force Major Crime Investigation Team leading extensive enquiries.
Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman said officers remain in the early stages of the investigation and are keeping an open mind about the circumstances surrounding the death.
He confirmed there is currently no information to suggest the incident was politically motivated and said, following consultation with counter-terrorism officers, it is not being treated as terrorism.
Police have not commented on whether the arrested man was known to Miss Widdecombe, saying it is too early to discuss that aspect of the investigation.
A large police cordon remains in place around the property on the eastern edge of Dartmoor while forensic specialists continue examinations.
Roads around Haytor Vale have been subject to closures, and residents can expect a significant police presence as officers carry out house-to-house enquiries and examine CCTV, doorbell camera and dashcam footage.
Detective Chief Inspector Ilona Rosson described the death as “an extremely tragic incident” and appealed for anyone with information to contact investigators.
“We are deploying all of the necessary resources to establish exactly what happened,” she said. “We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who was in the Haytor or Haytor Vale area and who may have witnessed anything unusual or captured footage that could assist our enquiries.”
She also urged the public to avoid speculation, particularly on social media, warning that rumours could hinder the investigation and add to the distress experienced by Miss Widdecombe’s family and friends.
Devon and Cornwall Police have established a Major Incident Public Portal where members of the public can upload photographs, video footage and other information directly to detectives. Information can also be provided by calling 101, quoting reference 50260179119 and Operation Hunlen, or anonymously through Crimestoppers.
Miss Widdecombe moved to Haytor in 2008 after leaving frontline politics, describing the property as the place where she intended to spend the rest of her life. She often spoke of her family’s Devon and Cornwall roots and her affection for Dartmoor, where she had visited since childhood.
Before retiring from Parliament, she represented Maidstone for 23 years as a Conservative MP and later served as a Member of the European Parliament before joining Reform UK as its immigration and justice spokesperson.
Her management team described the past 24 hours as “very traumatic and upsetting” and asked that the family’s privacy be respected while the police investigation continues.
The news has prompted tributes from across the political spectrum. Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the investigation as “shocking news” and urged anyone with relevant information to assist police. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said she was “stunned” by the “horrific” circumstances, while politicians including Angela Rayner, Ed Davey, Mel Stride and Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle also expressed condolences.
Former Strictly Come Dancing partner Anton Du Beke said he was “devastated” by the loss, remembering Miss Widdecombe as a loyal friend who embraced the programme with enthusiasm and humour.
Police say the investigation remains fast-moving and further updates will be released as enquiries progress.
( Photo: Christopher Furlong / Getty Images 📸 )