Counterterrorism police have taken control of the investigation into the killing of former British lawmaker Ann Widdecombe after authorities uncovered new evidence that prompted them to examine whether the attack was motivated by terrorism.
Widdecombe, 78, was found dead with serious injuries at her home in Haytor, Devon, on Thursday. Police believe she was attacked around 12:30 p.m. the previous day, nearly 24 hours before her body was discovered.
The former Conservative Party minister later became a prominent Brexit Party and Reform UK figure.
Suspect rearrested under terrorism law
A 28-year-old man from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, was initially arrested on suspicion of murder over the weekend. Police have since rearrested him on suspicion of the commission, preparation, or instigation of acts of terrorism.
The suspect has not been publicly identified, and no charges have been announced.
Counter Terrorism Policing Chief Laurence Taylor said specialists took over the case after investigators obtained “new information and evidence.”
“We are pursuing multiple lines of enquiry to establish the motivation for this attack,” Taylor said.
The decision marks a major shift from authorities’ position over the weekend. Devon and Cornwall Police had previously said there was no information indicating the killing was connected to terrorism or politically motivated.
Officials have not disclosed what new evidence caused investigators to reconsider that assessment.
Police warn against speculation
The involvement of counterterrorism officers does not establish that Widdecombe’s killing was a terrorist attack. Police are still investigating the motive and have not publicly concluded that her political career, religious beliefs, or work with Reform UK played a role.
Authorities have urged politicians and the public to avoid speculation that could prejudice a future prosecution.
Before the investigation changed hands, police warned that unsupported claims about the motive could distress Widdecombe’s family, influence witnesses, or compromise evidence.
House of Commons Speaker Lindsay Hoyle repeated that warning Monday while paying tribute to Widdecombe, urging lawmakers not to make statements that could interfere with potential court proceedings.
Widdecombe had remained politically active
Widdecombe served as a Conservative member of Parliament from 1987 until 2010 and held junior ministerial positions under Prime Minister John Major.
She later left the Conservative Party and was elected to the European Parliament as a Brexit Party candidate. At the time of her death, she was serving as Reform UK’s spokesperson on immigration and justice.
Her outspoken positions on immigration, Brexit, criminal justice, and socially conservative issues made her one of Britain’s most recognizable political personalities. She also reached audiences outside politics through appearances on programs including “Strictly Come Dancing” and “Celebrity Big Brother.”
Security concerns grow
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the government was being kept informed as police pursued the investigation.
“My thoughts today remain with Ann’s family and friends, and all those who loved her,” Mahmood said.
Widdecombe’s death has renewed concerns about threats facing British politicians. Labour lawmaker Jo Cox was murdered in 2016, and Conservative MP David Amess was fatally stabbed during a constituency meeting in 2021.
Police have not said whether they are seeking additional suspects. The investigation remains active, and authorities have appealed for anyone with relevant information, video or photographs to contact them.
