Police investigating the death of Ann Widdecombe believe the former Conservative minister was attacked almost 24 hours before her body was discovered at her home in Haytor, Devon.
The 78-year-old was found with serious injuries at around 11:40 BST on Thursday. Devon and Cornwall Police now believe the assault occurred on Wednesday at approximately 12:30 BST. They are searching for a suspect described as a white male.
On Saturday, the force announced that a 26-year-old white British man who had been arrested on suspicion of murder had been released and was no longer a suspect in the case.
Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman stated that the priority remains identifying those responsible and thoroughly examining all available evidence. He appealed for anyone with information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to come forward.
Police have declined to release further details, including suspect descriptions or CCTV footage, saying that doing so could compromise the investigation.
A significant police presence remains in the area, with forensic teams at the property. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage was among those laying memorial flowers near Widdecombe's home. Farage described her as a "remarkable individual" and "the fiercest defender of free speech."
Widdecombe's long-time driver, Peter Horrall, also paid tribute, saying she was "a great lady, very kind." Local residents expressed shock, noting that the area is typically very safe.
Widdecombe served as a Conservative MP for Maidstone from 1987 to 2010, later appearing on Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother. She joined the Brexit Party in 2019, serving as an MEP, and later became a spokesperson for Reform UK.
Political leaders across the spectrum have expressed shock at her death.