Detectives investigating the alleged murder of former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe have confirmed they are not seeking any other suspects after making an arrest. The 78-year-old, who later served as a Reform UK spokeswoman, was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor, Devon, at approximately 11:40am on Thursday, July 9. Police believe she sustained serious injuries almost 24 hours earlier, around 12:30pm on Wednesday, July 8.
Arrest in South Yorkshire
Devon and Cornwall Police announced that a 28-year-old white British man was arrested at an address in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, shortly after 9pm on Saturday, July 11. The arrest was carried out with support from Counter Terrorism Police North East and South Yorkshire Police. Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman stated that the force is not looking for anyone else in connection with the murder and that there is no evidence to suggest the crime was politically motivated or terrorism-related.
Police Statement and Reassurance
Mr Longman said: "At this point there is still no information to suggest that this is a terrorism related incident. We are not looking for anyone else in connection with this murder. We retain primacy of this investigation and detectives remain open-minded about the potential motive. At this stage, there is nothing to suggest that it was politically motivated." He added that a cordon remains in place at the scene for the next few days, and a heightened police presence will be visible in the local community in the coming weeks to provide reassurance. However, he stressed there is no wider threat to the public.
Appeal Against Speculation
Mr Longman urged the public to avoid online speculation about the motive, describing it as "unhelpful" and distressing to Widdecombe's family and friends. "We understand that there is a huge appetite for information, but progressing and protecting the integrity of our investigation is paramount now," he said. Widdecombe's family have been informed of the updates and are being supported by specialist officers.
Chief Constable Praises Response
Chief Constable James Vaughan praised the "extraordinary response" from his force and national partners, stating: "The support that Devon and Cornwall Police has received from our colleagues and our partners both in the region and nationally has been second to none. The operation has been running at a lightning pace for 48 hours and I am really pleased that we have a suspect firmly in custody. This is clearly British policing at its very best."
