Ann Widdecombe, a 78-year-old former British government minister and well-known Brexit campaigner, was found dead at her home on Thursday, having sustained serious injuries. UK police have launched a murder investigation into her death.

A 26-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the case and remains in custody. Matt Longman of Devon and Cornwall Police stated the incident is not being treated as terrorism or politically motivated.

Ms Widdecombe served as a Conservative member of parliament from 1987 to 2010 and held junior ministerial roles under former Prime Minister John Major. After leaving parliament, she gained fame as a contestant on the TV talent show Strictly Come Dancing in 2010.

Figures across the political spectrum have paid tribute to Widdecombe, described as "a heroic Brexiteer and a great speaker who could move Tory audiences to such ecstasy that she was a very hard act to follow."

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer commented, "The whole country will be utterly shocked by the awful news about the circumstances of Ann Widdecombe’s death."

The investigation continues as police work to establish the full circumstances surrounding her death.

Sources