Full Breakdown
Murder Investigation Launched After Former MP Ann Widdecombe Found Dead
7/10/2026, 8:46:38 PM
The Incident and Police Response
Devon and Cornwall Police were called to a residence in Haytor, near Newton Abbot, Devon at about 11:40 BST on Thursday. Officers found 78-year-old former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokesperson Ann Widdecombe deceased with serious injuries. A cordon has been erected around the property while specialist officers conduct forensic examinations, and road closures remain in place. Detectives are conducting house-to-house enquiries and reviewing CCTV, doorbell and dash-cam footage in the vicinity of Haytor Vale. Police have launched a manhunt for a white male they believe is responsible for the killing.
Background on Ann Widdecombe
Widdecombe served as a Conservative MP and prisons minister before becoming a Brexit Party MEP for South West England (2019-2020). She later joined Nigel Farage’s Reform UK in 2023, acting as the party’s immigration spokesperson. Outside politics she gained public attention by reaching the semi-finals of the BBC’s *Strictly Come Dancing* in 2010. Her management company, Cloud9 Management, represents her media engagements.
Investigation Details and Manhunt
The investigation is being led by the Force Major Crime Investigation Team, a county-level unit handling the most serious crimes. Police have described the suspect as a white male and have appealed for anyone with relevant information—however minor—to contact them. The uniformed presence in the area has been increased to reassure residents while detectives continue door-to-door and CCTV enquiries.
Official Statements & Responses
Detective Chief Inspector Ilona Rosson called the incident “extremely tragic” and emphasized that the inquiry is “in its early stages but moving at a significant pace,” with all necessary resources deployed. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood expressed that she was “deeply saddened” and described the circumstances as “extremely distressing,” urging the public not to speculate and noting that the Home Office stands ready to support the investigation. Cloud9 Management said it was “absolutely devastated” by the news and pledged full cooperation with police while requesting that the family not be contacted.
Why It Matters
Widdecombe’s death marks the loss of a high-profile political figure who remained active in public debate through Reform UK. The case underscores the challenges of investigating violent crime in rural communities and has prompted a heightened police presence in Devon. The public appeal for information highlights the reliance on community assistance in solving serious offenses.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
No details have been released regarding the exact cause of death, the nature of the injuries, or any motive. Police have asked the public to refrain from speculation, and no further suspect description beyond “white male” has been provided, leaving a gap in publicly available information.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This is an extremely tragic incident and our thoughts are very much with the family and friends of Ann Widdecombe at this difficult time.” — Ilona Rosson, Detective Chief Inspector
- “Our murder inquiry is in its early stages but moving at a significant pace. We are deploying all of the necessary resources to find out exactly what has happened and to locate the person responsible who we believe to be a white male.” — Ilona Rosson, Detective Chief Inspector
- “The circumstances of her death are extremely distressing and my thoughts are with Ann's family and loved ones.” — Shabana Mahmood, Home Secretary
- “We are absolutely devastated by this news following a very traumatic and upsetting 24 hours.” — Cloud9 Management
- “I would appeal to anyone who may have information about this incident, however insignificant it may seem, to come forward and speak with us.” — Ilona Rosson, Detective Chief Inspector
