Police investigating the death of former MP Ann Widdecombe have stated there is "nothing to suggest it was politically motivated." Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed they are not seeking any other suspects after arresting a 28-year-old white British man in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, on Saturday.
Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her home in Haytor, Devon, on Thursday with serious injuries. Investigators believe she was attacked nearly 24 hours earlier. Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman said officers remain "open-minded" about a motive but do not believe there is any threat to the wider public.
The arrest was made by Counter Terrorism Police North East and South Yorkshire Police, but Longman clarified the attack is not considered terrorism-related. Widdecombe's family has been informed and is receiving support.
Over 120 reports have been received following a public appeal, and police urge anyone with information to come forward. Longman cautioned against speculation, calling it "unhelpful" and "distressing" to the family. A heightened police presence will remain in the area for the coming weeks.
Chief Constable James Vaughan praised the investigation as "British policing at its very best," noting the rapid progress in the case. Widdecombe, a former Conservative MP for Maidstone and later a Reform UK spokesperson, also appeared on Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother. She served as a Brexit Party MEP from 2019 to 2020.
Tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called her death a "significant loss," while Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch described her as a "very fun and feisty woman." Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, who visited Dartmoor to pay respects, called her "the fiercest defender of free speech."
Her longtime driver, Peter Horrell, said Widdecombe "never mentioned any fear" and loved her village home.