A former British politician, Ann Widdecombe, was found dead in her Dartmoor home on Thursday, July 9. The investigation into her death has led to the arrest of two men, both of whom are being held by the authorities.
Widdecombe, a 78-year-old former Conservative MP, was discovered to have sustained serious injuries. The police immediately launched a murder investigation and have been conducting extensive inquiries into the circumstances surrounding her death.
The first suspect, a 26-year-old white British national, was arrested at an address in Newton Abbot, just a short drive away from Widdecombe's residence. However, he was released from custody on Saturday morning, and is no longer part of the investigation.
The police have now arrested a second suspect, a 28-year-old British national, in connection with Widdecombe's murder. He was arrested in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, on Friday evening, July 11.
The investigation is being led by Counter Terrorism police, who took the lead after new evidence came to light. The police have stated that the death of Widdecombe is not being treated as terror-related, but are keeping an open mind about the motives behind the crime.
Widdecombe was a well-known figure in British politics, having served as a Conservative minister and later joining the Brexit Party. She had also been a member of Reform UK, and had been actively involved in politics until her death.
Locals have expressed their shock and sadness at Widdecombe's death, describing her as a "lovely lady" and a "character". Neighbours have reported that she had withdrawn from the local community in recent years, but was still known to be approachable and friendly.
The police are urging anyone with information about the case to come forward and share their knowledge with the authorities. The investigation is ongoing, and the police are working to identify those responsible and ensure that all available evidence is thoroughly examined.
As the investigation continues, the police have issued a statement thanking the public for their cooperation and support. They have also reassured the public that there is no risk to the wider public, and that the investigation is proceeding at pace.
A timeline of the investigation into Ann Widdecombe's death is as follows:
- Friday, July 10: A murder investigation is launched after Widdecombe's body is found in her home.
- Saturday, July 11: A 26-year-old man is arrested in connection with Widdecombe's murder, but is later released from custody.
- Sunday, July 12: A second suspect, a 28-year-old British national, is arrested in Rotherham, South Yorkshire.
- Monday, July 13: Counter Terrorism police take the lead in the investigation after new evidence comes to light.
