Man released as police continue murder investigation into Ann Widdecombe’s death

A man arrested in connection with the murder investigation into the death of former MP Ann Widdecombe has been released and is no longer part of the investigation.

Miss Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her home in Haytor, Dartmoor, after emergency services were called to the property at around 11.40am on Thursday, July 9.

Devon and Cornwall Police said she had suffered serious injuries.

A 26-year-old man was later arrested on suspicion of murder, but police have now confirmed he has been released from custody and is no longer under investigation.

Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman said the murder investigation is moving at a significant pace.

He said the force’s priority remains identifying those responsible and making sure all available evidence is fully examined.

Detectives from the Force Major Crime Investigation Team are continuing to carry out enquiries into the circumstances surrounding Miss Widdecombe’s death.

A cordon remains in place at the property while specialist officers carry out forensic examinations.

Road closures are also in place around the scene.

Police said the public will continue to see a significant police presence in the area while officers conduct house-to-house enquiries and review CCTV footage.

ACC Longman described the incident as extremely tragic and said the thoughts of officers are with Miss Widdecombe’s family and friends.

Her next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.

Police are appealing for anyone with information, images or footage that could help the investigation to come forward.

Officers have also asked people not to speculate about what happened, particularly on social media, warning that this could harm the investigation and cause further distress to Miss Widdecombe’s family and friends.

Information can be submitted to Devon and Cornwall Police through the Major Incident Public Portal, or by contacting police and quoting reference 50260179119 and Operation Hunlen.

Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers.

For more UK crime and political news updates, follow Pulse Media.