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

Ann Widdecombe’s management said they were “absolutely devastated” by the news that police had launched a murder investigation into her death and urged anyone with information to contact detectives.

Police have appealed to anyone with information about the circumstances surrounding Ms Widdecombe’s death to come forward.

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

“Our murder investigation is still in its early stages but is moving at a significant pace. We are using all necessary resources to find out exactly what happened and find the person responsible, whom we believe to be a white male.”

“I would appeal to anyone with information about this incident, no matter how trivial it may seem, to come forward and speak to us.

“We would particularly like to hear from anyone who may have seen anything suspicious around Haytor Vale, Haytor, or anyone who has CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage that could assist our investigation.

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

“We will release further information when possible. In the meantime, I would ask people not to speculate, particularly on social media, about what may have happened. Not only is this potentially detrimental to our investigation, but it is also extremely distressing for Ann Widdecombe’s family and friends.”

Ann Widdecombe suffered “serious injuries” before she died, police said, as they launched a murder investigation into the death of the former Tory minister.

Devon and Cornwall Police said in a statement that they were called to an address in 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 carrying out full inquiries into the circumstances surrounding Ms Widdecombe’s death,” police said.

“The property remains cordoned off while specialist officers continue forensic examinations. Roads are closed around the scene.

“The public will see a significant police presence in the area today as detectives and officers carry out house-to-house and CCTV inquiries.”

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

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

Following news of her death, senior politicians showered her with praise on Friday.

A spokesman for Sir Keir Starmer said: “He was a distinctive figure in British politics for many years and we pay tribute to the faith and dedication he showed in serving his country.”

Nigel Farage, leader of the Reform Party, which Ms Widdecombe joined before her death, said: “When Ann Widdecombe decided to stand for the Brexit Party at the 2019 European Election, it was a huge moment and a huge boost.

“Voters loved him. He played a decisive role in getting Brexit across the border and he will be missed by us all.”

Former prime minister Boris Johnson said he was a “heroic Brexiteer and a great speaker who could get Tory audiences so enthusiastic that they would be very difficult to follow”.

Police will hold a press conference at 4.30pm this afternoon where they are expected to give more details about the investigation into Ms Widdecombe’s death.

Deputy Police Chief Matt Longman is expected to make a statement.

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