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White Male Suspect Named in Widdecombe Murder, Manhunt Begins

7/10/2026

39 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Police have named a white male suspect in former MP Ann Widdecombe’s murder at her Haytor, Devon home and have started a manhunt.
Detective Chief Inspector Ilona Rosson said the inquiry is in its early stages but is moving quickly.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch all expressed condolences, called the case distressing and urged the public to provide information and avoid speculation.

History

Historical Context

Jo Cox’s murder on 16 June 2016, the first killing of a sitting British MP since Conservative Ian Gow was slain by the IRA in 1990, shocked the nation and prompted a parliamentary security review. Thomas Mair received a whole-life term in November 2016, and the subsequent killing of Sir David Amess five years later reinforced calls for stronger protection of MPs.

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Story summary

Police have named a white male suspect in former MP Ann Widdecombe’s murder at her Haytor, Devon home and have started a manhunt.
Detective Chief Inspector Ilona Rosson said the inquiry is in its early stages but is moving quickly.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch all expressed condolences, called the case distressing and urged the public to provide information and avoid speculation.

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