Police warn Widdecombe speculation is ‘unhelpful and distressing’
8 reported1 unconfirmed
Devon and Cornwall police have warned against public speculation during the murder investigation into Ann Widdecombe's death, stating there is "nothing to suggest" political motivation. The warning follows an intervention by Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, who visited the area around Widdecombe's home and told journalists her death appeared to be "premeditated murder." Police said the killing is not being treated as terrorism or politically motivated, and urged the public not to speculate, calling it unhelpful to the investigation and distressing for the family. A 28-year-old man arrested in Rotherham on suspicion of murder remains in custody, and officers said they are not looking for anyone else. Politicians from across the spectrum, including a Labour minister and former Conservative justice secretary David Gauke, have urged greater restraint. Former police chief Sir Peter Fahy warned that public interventions could create practical dangers for detectives, including witness contamination and evidence destruction.
What’s reported
Ann Widdecombe, a former Conservative minister and later Reform UK spokesperson, was found dead at her home in Haytor, Devon, on Thursday with serious injuries; police said she may have been dead for more than 24 hours.
Police said the killing is not being treated as terrorism or politically motivated.
Nigel Farage visited the area around Widdecombe's home and told journalists her death appeared to be "premeditated murder."
A 28-year-old man arrested in Rotherham on suspicion of murder remains in custody; police are not looking for anyone else.
CCTV showed a man leaving a Rotherham address at 7am and driving off in a Vauxhall Corsa, the Times reported.
Neighbours reported seeing him put "some kind of wooden pole" into a red car, the Telegraph reported.
Harvey Proctor, a former Tory MP and close friend, called Farage's public statements "deeply disappointing," the Times reported.
Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman urged people not to share or engage with speculation, calling it unhelpful and distressing.
Open questions
The specific motive for Widdecombe's death remains unknown, as police said they are keeping an open mind.
Key figures
Ann Widdecombe, former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokesperson (deceased)
Nigel Farage, Reform UK leader
Harvey Proctor, former Tory MP and close friend of Widdecombe
David Gauke, former Conservative justice secretary
Sir Peter Fahy, former chief constable of Greater Manchester police
Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, Conservative MP and chair of the Commons public accounts committee
Matt Longman, assistant chief constable of Devon and Cornwall police
Sources: The Guardian
