Ann Widdecombe, the former Conservative MP and media personality, was found dead at her home in Haytor, Devon, on 9 July.
Police reported that she had sustained serious injuries, including a severe head wound, and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Devon and Cornwall Police have launched a murder investigation, with detectives from the Major Crime Investigation Team leading the enquiry.
The property remains cordoned off while forensic examinations are conducted, and surrounding roads have been closed to support the investigation.
A 26‑year‑old white male suspect was arrested in Newton Abbot on Friday and is now in custody.
Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman confirmed the suspect is a British national; investigators have consulted counter‑terrorism units but do not treat the case as terror‑related.
Police have appealed for anyone with information, including CCTV, doorbell or dash‑cam footage from the Haytor Vale area, to come forward, stressing that even minor details may be crucial.
Authorities have urged the public not to speculate on motive, noting that no evidence currently points to a political or terrorist motive.
The Home Secretary and the Prime Minister both expressed condolences and called for restraint on social media while the investigation proceeds.
Widdecombe’s management issued a statement saying the family wishes to be left alone and that they fully support the police investigation.
Neighbours described Widdecombe as a well‑known and respected figure in the community, expressing shock and sadness at the incident.
The investigation remains ongoing, and police have pledged to release further information when it becomes available.
