Counter terrorism police now leading investigation into Ann Widdecombe's death
The former MP was found dead at her home in Devon last Thursday (9 July)
Last updated 13th Jul 2026
Counter terrorism police are now leading the investigation into the death of Ann Widdecombe after "new information and evidence" came to light.
The 78-year-old former Conservative MP and later Reform UK spokeswoman was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor at about 11.40am on Thursday after sustaining serious injuries.
A 28-year-old white British man was arrested on suspicion of murder in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, on Saturday night (11 July).
The 28-year-old has since been rearrested on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.
Counter-terrorism police have said that new information and evidence had come to light during the police investigation into the suspected murder of Miss Widdecombe.
Head of National Counter Terrorism Policing, Laurence Taylor, said: “Building on the progress made by our colleagues in Devon and Cornwall Police, we now have new information and evidence that means Counter Terrorism Policing is now leading the investigation.
“We are pursuing multiple lines of enquiry to establish the motivation for this attack.
“Our priority is progressing this investigation quickly, with all the capabilities we have available to us. If anyone has any information, please share it with the police.
“We would like to thank local communities, the wider public and the media for their ongoing support and patience, and would ask them to continue to support us in the next stage of the investigation.”
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has said on X that she will update MPs in the commons later today (13 July).
She said she had spoken to the head of Counter-Terrorism Policing about the case.
She said: “The police are pursuing multiple lines of inquiry to establish the motivation for this attack.
“I will be updating the House further this afternoon. My thoughts today remain with Ann’s family and friends, and all those who loved her.”
Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle has paid tribute to Ann Widdecombe, who he described as both “fierce” and “principled”.
Sir Lindsay told MPs: “I’d like to pay tribute to Ann Widdecombe who died in tragic, deeply troubling circumstances last week.
“Ann was a formidable politician, a prominent figure in public life.”
The Speaker later added: “Ann was fierce and enjoyed robust political debate.
“Whether you agreed with her or not, she was principled, spoke her mind and was true to her beliefs which were informed by her Christian faith.”