Ann Widdecombe murder investigation latest: Police probe death of former Tory minister at Devon home

Police have urged anyone who may have any information about the circumstances surrounding Ms Widdecombe’s death to come forwards.

Detective Chief Inspector Ilona Rosson said: “This is an extremely tragic incident and our thoughts are very much with the family and friends of Ann Widdecombe at this difficult time.

“Our murder enquiry is in its early stages but moving at a significant pace. We are deploying all of the necessary resources to find out exactly what has happened and to locate the person responsible who we believe to be a white male.

“I would appeal to anyone who may have information about this incident, however insignificant it may seem, to come forward and speak with us.

“We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have seen anything suspicious in the vicinity of Haytor Vale, Haytor, or anyone with CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage which could assist with our investigation.

“We have an increased uniformed police presence in the area to both support the investigation and provide reassurance to residents. Anyone with concerns can speak with our officers at the scene.

“We will release further information when we are able to do so. In the meantime I would ask people not to speculate about what might have happened, particularly on social media. This is not only potentially harmful to our investigation but also deeply distressing for family and friends of Ann Widdecombe.”

Ann Widdecombe sustained “serious injuries” before her death, police have said, as they launched a murder investigation into the former Tory minister’s death.

In a statement, Devon and Cornwall Police said they were called to an address at Haytor by the ambulance service at around 11:40am on Thursday.

“Detectives from the Force Major Crime Investigation Team have launched a murder investigation and are conducting extensive enquiries into the circumstances surrounding Miss Widdecombe’s death,” the force said.

“A cordon remains in place at the property while specialist officers continue forensic examinations. There are road closures in place around the scene.

“The public will see a significant police presence in the area today while detectives and officers conduct house-to-house and CCTV enquiries.”

Police have launched a murder investigation following the “suspicious death” of Ann Widdecombe, police confirmed.

A spokesman for the coroner’s office for the county of Devon, Plymouth and Torbay has said in a statement that “preliminary inquiries are ongoing” into Ann Widdecombe’s death.

Tributes to Ann Widdecombe flooded in from top politicians on Friday following news of her death.

A spokesperson for Sir Keir Starmer said: “She was a distinctive figure in British politics for many years, and he pays tribute to the conviction and dedication with which she served her country.”

Leader of the Reform Party, which Ms Widdecombe joined before her death, Nigel Farage said: “When Ann Widdecombe decided to stand for The Brexit Party in the snap 2019 European Elections, it was a big moment and huge boost.

“The voters loved her. She played a decisive role in getting Brexit over the line and will be missed by us all.”

Former prime minister Boris Johnson said she was a “heroic Brexiteer and a great speaker who could move Tory audiences to such ecstasy that she was a very hard act to follow”.

Police will hold a press conference at 4:30 this afternoon where they are expected to give more details into their investigation into Ms Widdecombe’s death.

Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman is expected to make a statement.

Police are investigating the death of former Tory minister Ann Widdecombe, The Independent understands.