Counter-terrorism police take over investigation into Ann Widdecombe's death
Counter-terrorism police take over investigation into Ann Widdecombe's death
Counter-terrorism police have taken over the investigation into the death of former Conservative minister Ann Widdecombe after new information emerged, and a suspect has been rearrested on terrorism charges.
- A 28-year-old white British man from Rotherham was rearrested on suspicion of commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism after originally being arrested on suspicion of murder.
- Laurence Taylor, head of National Counter Terrorism Policing, said officers are pursuing multiple lines of enquiry to establish the motivation for the attack.
- Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her home in Haytor, Devon, on Thursday having sustained serious injuries.
- Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said she would update the House of Commons on the investigation later Monday.
Latest developments
In a subsequent update, Devon and Cornwall Police have clarified that the investigation into Ann Widdecombe's death is not being treated as terrorism, with no evidence of a political motive. Investigators believe Widdecombe may have been dead for over 24 hours before her body was discovered. The suspect's age has been reported as 26 by some sources, while political leaders including Keir Starmer, Kemi Badenoch, and Nigel Farage have expressed shock and upset over her death.
Coverage
14 outlets — read the original reporting
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Ann Widdecombe death: counter-terrorism police take over investigation
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