Ann Widdecombe killed in targeted attack at Devon home, counter-terror police confirm

Counter-terror police have confirmed that Ann Widdecombe was killed in a "targeted attack," according to officials.

The Reform UK spokeswoman and former Conservative minister was found dead at her home in Devon last Thursday after sustaining serious injuries. Police believe she was attacked at her residence at approximately 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday.

Arrest and Investigation

A 28-year-old white British man was arrested on suspicion of murder last Saturday and re-arrested on Monday on suspicion of commission, preparation, or instigation of acts of terrorism.

Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, head of counter-terrorism policing, confirmed that officers are still "working to understand the planning and preparation and the motivation that sits behind the attack."

Speaking from New Scotland Yard, Taylor said there is a "limit" to the details he can provide given it is a live murder investigation, "but it is clear this was a targeted attack."

Taylor noted that officers have conducted "extensive searches" in line with the investigation and acknowledged "significant levels of public interest."

"I do not intend to address every bit of speculation we have seen, but I would like to use this opportunity to remind the public that investigations of this type are complex, and new information can emerge as officers progress their inquiries," Taylor said.

He added: "We will release further information when it is appropriate to do so. Think before sharing misinformation."

Legal Status

Taylor stated that the attack has not, at this stage, been "declared a terrorist incident," but police have secured a warrant of further detention. The suspect can now be held for up to seven days under the Terrorism Act.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood confirmed on Monday that the suspect was not known to Prevent, the government's programme aimed at stopping individuals at risk of becoming terrorists.

Police previously said there was "nothing to suggest" Widdecombe's death was politically motivated and that it was not "being treated as terrorism."

Additional Arrest

Officers also briefly arrested a 26-year-old man in connection with her death on Friday but confirmed his release on Saturday.

Investigation Handover

The counter-terror police took over the investigation into Widdecombe's death from Devon and Cornwall Police on Monday.

Background

Widdecombe, who was 78, became a Brexit Party MEP after leaving the House of Commons and subsequently served as a Reform UK spokeswoman. She also found fame outside politics after starring in Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother.

Listen to Commons People, the podcast that makes politics easy. Every week, Kevin Schofield and Kate Nicholson unpack the week's biggest stories to keep you informed. Join us for straightforward analysis of what's going on at Westminster.