Ann Widdecombe attacked nearly 24 hours before she was found dead, police believe
Police are investigating the murder of 78-year-old former Conservative minister Ann Widdecombe, who was found dead in her Devon home. Authorities believe the attack occurred nearly 24 hours before she was discovered and are currently pursuing leads on a suspect.
Why it matters
The death of a prominent former political figure has triggered a high-profile investigation and public concern in the UK.
Image source, BBC News By Zahra Fatima Published 11 July 2026, 14:17 BST Updated 22 minutes ago Ann Widdecombe was attacked nearly 24 hours before she was found dead, police believe.
The 78-year-old former Conservative minister was found with serious injuries at her home in Haytor, Devon at 11:40 BST on Thursday.
Devon and Cornwall Police said they believe the attack took place on Wednesday at around 12:30 BST, and added that enquiries were "moving at pace for a suspect who is believed to be a white male".
On Saturday morning, the force announced a 26-year-old white British man, who had been arrested a day earlier on suspicion of murdering the former MP, had been released from custody and was "no longer part of the investigation".
Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman said the priority "remains identifying those responsible and ensuring that all available evidence is thoroughly examined".
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