Former MP Ann Widdecombe found dead, murder probe underway
Police are investigating the killing of 78-year-old former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe, with no sign yet of a political motive, prompting renewed concerns over the safety of UK politicians.
A 78-year-old former British member of Parliament was discovered with serious injuries at her home on Thursday, leading police to open a murder investigation. Ann Widdecombe, who served two decades as a Conservative MP before becoming a television commentator and later a justice spokesperson for Reform UK, was found dead at her residence.
Police said there is currently no indication that the killing was politically motivated, though the case has revived worries about the security of elected officials after the murders of MPs Jo Cox in 2016 and David Amess in 2021. A 26-year-old man previously arrested on suspicion of murder was released and is no longer part of the inquiry, while a substantial police presence remains at the scene.
"Our murder enquiry 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," Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman of Devon and Cornwall Police said.
Political leaders expressed shock and sympathy. Outgoing prime minister Keir Starmer called the news "shocking," and Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said she was "stunned" and struggled to find words. Interior minister Shabana Mahmood described the circumstances as "extremely distressing" and urged the public to avoid speculation.
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage warned that the incident could make public life "even more dangerous," while acknowledging that the motive remains unknown and suggesting it could be a burglary gone wrong.
The incident has revived memories of previous attacks on MPs. Jo Cox’s husband, Brendan Cox, said Widdecombe’s death brought back the pain of his own loss, and academics noted that crimes against MPs have more than doubled since the 2019 general election, with increased harassment both in person and online.
Widdecombe was reported missing on Wednesday after failing to appear for a scheduled television interview, prompting her management company to alert authorities.
The investigation continues, with police emphasizing the need for public patience as they work to determine the circumstances of the death.