Murder Investigation Into Ann Widdecombe's Death Continues as Arrested Man Is Released

Police investigating the killing of former British MP Ann Widdecombe have released a 26-year-old man who had been arrested on suspicion of murder, confirming he is no longer part of the investigation.

Devon and Cornwall Police announced early Saturday that the man, a white British national arrested in Newton Abbot on Friday, has been released from custody after further inquiries.

Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman said detectives remain fully focused on identifying those responsible for Widdecombe's death.

"Our priority remains identifying those responsible and ensuring that every available piece of evidence is thoroughly examined," Longman said. He added that investigators are pursuing numerous lines of inquiry as the investigation continues at a rapid pace.

Police are urging anyone with information, no matter how minor it may seem, to contact officers as they work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident. Longman also appealed to the public to avoid speculation, particularly on social media, warning that unverified claims could hinder the investigation and cause further distress to Widdecombe's family.

The family has requested privacy while they grieve.

Ann Widdecombe, 78, was found with serious injuries at her home in Haytor Vale, near Dartmoor National Park in Devon, after emergency services responded to the property at approximately 11:40 a.m. on Thursday. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Earlier on Friday, police confirmed they were searching for a white male in connection with the investigation before making the arrest in nearby Newton Abbot, less than 10 miles from Widdecombe's residence. However, officers have now ruled that individual out of their inquiries.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Longman said investigators do not believe the killing was politically motivated. Following consultations with counter-terrorism officers, police have also ruled out terrorism as a motive.

Widdecombe had remained active in public life until shortly before her death. She appeared on TalkTV on Wednesday and had been scheduled to join a Channel 5 television program later that afternoon via Zoom from her home. According to reports, she exchanged messages with the production team but failed to join the broadcast. Repeated calls and messages afterward went unanswered, prompting concern.

Tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum following news of her death.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the incident as "truly shocking," saying political differences should be set aside while supporting the ongoing police investigation. He praised Widdecombe's decades of public service and described her death as a significant loss.

Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch also expressed deep sadness, calling the attack "horrific" and saying the Conservative Party was "reeling" from the news. She remembered Widdecombe as a dedicated public servant who later joined Reform UK after leaving the Conservative Party.

A well-known figure in British politics, Widdecombe served as the Conservative MP for Maidstone for more than two decades before leaving Parliament. She later became a Member of the European Parliament representing South West England and remained a prominent media commentator and Reform UK spokeswoman on immigration and justice.

Detectives continue to appeal for witnesses as they work to identify the person or persons responsible for her death.