British Police Arrest New Suspect in Ann Widdecombe Murder Investigation

British police have arrested a 28-year-old man in connection with the murder of former UK lawmaker and television personality Ann Widdecombe.

Devon and Cornwall Police said the suspect was arrested on Saturday in South Yorkshire, about 320 kilometres from Widdecombe's home in Haytor, Devon, where she was found dead on Thursday.

The latest arrest came after officers released a 26-year-old man who had earlier been detained in the case, confirming he was no longer under investigation.

Police believe Widdecombe, 78, was attacked around 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday at her isolated home on the edge of Dartmoor National Park. Authorities have not disclosed the cause of death but said she suffered serious injuries. They also stated there is currently no indication that the attack was terrorism-related or that it poses a wider threat to the public.

Counterterrorism officers assisted local investigators with Saturday's arrest as detectives continue their investigation.

The killing has shocked the United Kingdom, prompting renewed concerns over the safety of politicians following the murders of MPs Jo Cox in 2016 and David Amess in 2021.

Widdecombe served as a Conservative Member of Parliament from 1987 to 2010 before becoming a television personality through appearances on Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother. She later represented the Brexit Party in the European Parliament and most recently was a member of Reform UK.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the killing as "really shocking news," while Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called it a "horrific attack" and offered condolences to Widdecombe's family.

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