Former UK Minister Ann Widdecombe Found Dead, Police Hunt Suspect

The United Kingdom has been left in shock following the death of former Conservative minister Ann Widdecombe , with police launching a murder investigation after she was found dead with serious injuries at her home in Devon.

Devon and Cornwall Police said the 78-year-old politician was discovered at her remote residence near Haytor Vale on Thursday. Detectives from the force's Major Crime Investigation Team are treating the case as suspicious and are searching for a white male suspect believed to be connected to the incident. Additional officers have been deployed in the area as investigations continue.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the incident as "really shocking news" and paid tribute to Widdecombe's long public service. He urged the public to assist investigators, stressing that the suspect remained "clearly dangerous" and calling for unity beyond political differences to ensure justice is served.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood expressed condolences to Widdecombe's family and praised her decades of service to her constituents. She said the Home Office stands ready to support the ongoing investigation and appealed to the public to avoid speculation while police carry out their inquiries.

Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson was among political leaders who paid tribute, describing Widdecombe as a "heroic Brexiteer." Widdecombe served as a Conservative MP before joining the Brexit Party during the campaign for Britain's exit from the European Union. In 2023, she also served for a period as Reform UK's immigration and justice spokesperson.

Detective Chief Inspector Ilona Rosson said extensive inquiries are underway to determine the circumstances of the death and identify those responsible.

The killing has prompted cross-party condemnation , with leaders across the political spectrum calling for cooperation with investigators. The united response has highlighted the UK's commitment to democratic resilience , the rule of law , and ensuring that political violence does not undermine public life or democratic institutions.