Dartmoor: Police launch murder inquiry after Ann Widdecombe found dead at home

Former minister Ann Widdecombe found dead at home, police open murder probe

What happened? Ann Widdecombe, 78, was found dead with serious injuries at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor on Thursday morning, police said after being called by the ambulance service at about 11:40 BST; Devon and Cornwall Police later announced a murder investigation and named a suspect.

Immediate developments Officers were alerted by paramedics at around 11:40 BST and discovered Widdecombe with serious injuries at her Haytor residence; her death was publicly confirmed by her management team on Friday morning, before the force disclosed a murder inquiry that same afternoon.

Suspect and appeal Police said they are seeking a suspect believed to be a white male and asked the public for any information, including CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage from Haytor Vale, Haytor and surrounding areas.

Police activity A significant police presence remains at the property while investigators conduct inquiries; extra uniformed officers are patrolling the area to assist enquiries and reassure residents, the force added.

Official statements Detective Chief Inspector Ilona Rosson described the incident as extremely tragic and urged anyone with information, however small, to come forward. The coroner’s office for Devon, Plymouth and Torbay said preliminary inquiries are ongoing.

Political reactions Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called the news shocking and said he had spoken with parliamentary and party leaders to urge unity; Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood asked the public to avoid speculation and allow the police investigation to progress.

Responses from colleagues Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch expressed devastation and described Widdecombe as a feisty figure who spoke her mind. Other political figures, including Reform UK’s Nigel Farage and regional leaders, were contacted by the prime minister.

Background Widdecombe served as MP for Maidstone for 23 years and was a Home Office and employment minister in John Major’s government from 1994 to 1997. After leaving Parliament, she appeared on television programmes including Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother.

Later career She served as an MEP for the Brexit Party representing South West England from 2019 to 2020 and joined Reform UK in 2023 as the party’s immigration and justice spokesperson, making regular media appearances in that role.