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Ann Widdecombe murder: 26-year-old man released by police

British investigators say the suspect is no longer under inquiry. The former Conservative MP was found dead at her home with multiple injuries

A 26-year-old man detained in connection with the murder of Ann Widdecombe has been released and is no longer under investigation, police said. The update was reported by the BBC, citing an official statement from authorities.

Widdecombe, 78, a former Conservative MP later associated with Reform UK, was found dead on Thursday at her home. Her body showed multiple injuries.

“Our priority remains identifying those responsible and ensuring that all evidence is fully examined,” said the deputy chief constable of Devon and Cornwall Police. Investigators, he added, are continuing to pursue several lines of inquiry.

The man arrested the previous day, described as a British citizen, has now been cleared of involvement. Police reiterated their appeal for information, urging anyone who may have relevant details, however minor, to come forward.

At a press conference following the initial arrest, authorities had stated there was no indication the killing was politically motivated and ruled out a terrorist motive.

Widdecombe was first elected to the House of Commons in 1987 during Margaret Thatcher’s tenure. She remained a Conservative MP until 2010, known for strongly conservative positions, particularly on social issues, and held roles as a junior minister.

After leaving Parliament, she appeared in television programs, including reality shows. During the Brexit referendum, she returned to political prominence as a leading voice for Leave. Between 2019 and 2020, she served as a Member of the European Parliament for Nigel Farage’s Brexit Party and later became a member of Reform UK, acting as spokesperson on immigration and justice.

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