Police in southwest England have released a man who was initially arrested in connection with the death of former British lawmaker Ann Widdecombe, saying he is no longer considered part of the investigation.
“Our priority remains identifying those responsible and ensuring that all available evidence is thoroughly examined,” Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman of the Devon and Cornwall Police said in a press statement. “Detectives continue to carry out numerous inquiries as part of the ongoing investigation, and we remain committed to establishing the full circumstances surrounding the incident.”
The 26-year-old man was arrested on Friday in connection with Widdecombe’s death. Widdecombe’s body was discovered on Tuesday at her home in southwest England. Police said she had suffered “serious injuries,” prompting an investigation.
The former politician was a prominent figure in British politics for more than two decades. She served as a Conservative Member of Parliament from 1987 to 2010, then later became part of Reform UK. Widdecombe also served as a member of the European Parliament in 2019 and 2020.
Widdecombe was additionally known for appearing on multiple reality TV shows, including Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother, according to Deadline.
Devon and Cornwall Police Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman said that the suspected killing is not believed to be politically motivated.
In a statement, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said, “this is really shocking news, and my thoughts, I think all of our thoughts, will be with the family and friends of Ann Widdecombe at this awful time for them.”
“Our priority remains identifying those responsible and ensuring that all available evidence is thoroughly examined,” Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman of the Devon and Cornwall Police said in a press statement. “Detectives continue to carry out numerous inquiries as part of the ongoing investigation, and we remain committed to establishing the full circumstances surrounding the incident.”
The 26-year-old man was arrested on Friday in connection with Widdecombe’s death. Widdecombe’s body was discovered on Tuesday at her home in southwest England. Police said she had suffered “serious injuries,” prompting an investigation.
The former politician was a prominent figure in British politics for more than two decades. She served as a Conservative Member of Parliament from 1987 to 2010, then later became part of Reform UK. Widdecombe also served as a member of the European Parliament in 2019 and 2020.
Widdecombe was additionally known for appearing on multiple reality TV shows, including Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother, according to Deadline.
Devon and Cornwall Police Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman said that the suspected killing is not believed to be politically motivated.
In a statement, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said, “this is really shocking news, and my thoughts, I think all of our thoughts, will be with the family and friends of Ann Widdecombe at this awful time for them.”
