Ann Widdecombe may have been killed 24 hours before body found
Police believe former politician Ann Widdecombe died nearly a day before her body was discovered in Devon. A 26-year-old man arrested has been released without charge.
Suspicious death in Devon
Police have announced that 78-year-old former MP and Reform UK member Ann Widdecombe may have been killed around 12:30pm on Wednesday, with her body found at her bungalow in Haytor, Devon, at 11:40am on Thursday.
A 26-year-old man arrested on Friday in Newton Abbot in connection with the investigation was released without charge on Saturday and is no longer a suspect.
Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman of Devon and Cornwall Police said the death is being treated as suspicious, but there is no wider threat to the public. He appealed for information: "Our inquiries are moving at pace for a suspect who is believed to be a white male."
Last known movements
Widdecombe made her last television appearance on TalkTV shortly after 8am on Wednesday. She then spoke to a researcher from Channel 5's "Matt Allwright" show. Her last message to the staff member was sent at 12:19pm. At 12:48pm, the researcher contacted Widdecombe to join a Zoom link for an interview, but received no response.
Channel 5 executives contacted Widdecombe's agent after follow-up messages went unanswered. Producers were concerned because it was uncharacteristic of her not to respond.
Investigation and public appeal
Police urge the public not to speculate on social media and to submit any information, images or footage via a major incident portal. Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers.
Authorities confirmed the death is not being treated as terrorism or politically motivated.
Tributes
Widdecombe's driver Peter Horrell called her a "great lady" who was "very comical" and "down to earth." Neighbor Christine Maloney said: "It shouldn't have happened, it's horrific." Another resident, Alison Gilbert, described her as "a nice woman with a great sense of humour." Former colleague and friend Gyles Brandreth said they remained friends since meeting at age 19 because "she was fun and kind."
Widdecombe, an outspoken Catholic convert who opposed abortion and same-sex marriage, retired from the Commons in 2010 after 23 years as MP for Maidstone. She later appeared on "Strictly Come Dancing," reaching the semi-finals, and became an MEP for Nigel Farage's Brexit party.
