Overview
- Her management announced her death and police say officers were called to her home in Haytor on Thursday where Widdecombe, 78, was found deceased with serious injuries.
- Devon and Cornwall Police have opened a murder investigation named Operation Hunlen, with a cordon and forensic examinations at the property and a Major Incident Public Portal set up for evidence (reference 50260179119).
- Detectives say they are searching for a suspect they believe to be a white male and have asked anyone with CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage or relevant information to contact the force or Crimestoppers.
- Next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers, and national figures have paid tribute while officials have urged the public to avoid speculation that could hinder the investigation.
- Widdecombe was a high-profile former Conservative MP, Brexit Party MEP and Reform UK adviser, and her death is likely to keep the case under intense public and political scrutiny as police work to identify and arrest the person responsible.