Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman urged the public to stop speculating about the motive behind the death of former MP Ann Widdecombe, describing such speculation as unhelpful and distressing to her family.
Widdecombe, 78, was found dead with serious head injuries at her Dartmoor home on Thursday. Police have classified the case as a murder investigation and are treating it as a possible foul‑play incident.
Detectives have arrested a 26‑year‑old white British man on suspicion of involvement, but he was released from custody on Saturday and is no longer part of the inquiry.
A second suspect, a 28‑year‑old British national, was detained in Rotherham on Friday evening on suspicion of murder. Police have stated there is no wider public threat and that the investigation remains the priority.
The force has confirmed that counter‑terrorism units were consulted, but there is currently no evidence to suggest a terrorist motive.
Witnesses reported a van arriving at Widdecombe’s residence in the early hours of the day she was found, and a neighbour described the area as quiet with little crime.
Widdecombe’s driver of ten years said she never expressed fear for her safety, and friends noted her recent withdrawal from the local community.
She had been scheduled to appear on a television programme on the day of her death, but failed to respond to multiple messages and calls from the production team.
Tributes have poured in, with political figures expressing shock at the loss of the former MP.
Police continue to gather evidence, emphasizing that they remain open‑minded about the motive and urging anyone with information to contact the investigation team.
