A murder investigation has been launched in the United Kingdom following the death of former government minister Ann Widdecombe, with police arresting a 26-year-old man in connection with the case.
Devon and Cornwall Police said the suspect was detained in Newton Abbot, Devon, and remains in custody. Authorities said the incident is not being treated as terrorism or politically motivated.
Widdecombe, 78, was found with serious injuries at her home in southwest England after police were called on Thursday.
She served as a Conservative Member of Parliament between 1987 and 2010 and held several junior ministerial roles under former Prime Minister John Major. Forensic examinations are continuing at the property, while Interior Minister Shabana Mahmood described the circumstances of Widdecombe’s death as extremely distressing.
Known for her socially conservative views, Widdecombe remained a prominent figure in British public life after leaving Parliament, appearing on Strictly Come Dancing in 2010 and later serving as a Brexit Party Member of the European Parliament.
She most recently worked as immigration spokesperson for Reform UK.
Political leaders across party lines have paid tribute, with former Prime Minister Boris Johnson describing her as a “heroic Brexiteer” and a powerful speaker.
