Police launch murder investigation into the death of Ann Widdecombe
The death of Ann Widdecombe is now being investigated as a murder, after she was found already dead at her home having "sustained serious injuries".
Police have launched a murder investigation into the death of Ann Widdecombe.
The late former MP and Strictly Come Dancing star was found dead at her home aged 78 on Thursday (09.07.26), and now authorities have released more details about her tragic death.
Devon and Cornwall Police's DCI Ilona Rosson said: "This is an extremely tragic incident and our thoughts are very much with the family and friends of Ann Widdecombe at this difficult time.
"Our murder enquiry is in its early stages but moving at a significant pace.
"We are deploying all of the necessary resources to find out exactly what has happened and to locate the person responsible who we believe to be a white male.
"I would appeal to anyone who may have information about this incident, however insignificant it may seem, to come forward and speak with us."
Rosson noted that of particularly interest is "anyone who may have seen anything suspicious in the vicinity of Haytor Vale, Haytor, or anyone with CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage which could assist with our investigation".
Police have also urged people "not to speculate about" the specifics around Widdecombe's death.
Rosson continued: "We will release further information when we are able to do so.
"In the meantime I would ask people not to speculate about what might have happened, particularly on social media.
"This is not only potentially harmful to our investigation but also deeply distressing for family and friends of Ann Widdecombe."
In the statement from police, it's been confirmed officers were called by the ambulance service to an address in Haytor, Dartmoor at around 11:40am on July 9.
Police say Widdecombe had "sustained serious injuries" and was "located deceased" in her home, while a cordon remains in place as specialist officers carry out forensic examinations.
The Force Major Crime Investigation Team has launched a murder investigation, and "extensive enquiries" have started.
Widdecombe's agents, Cloud 9 Management, confirmed her passing on Friday (10.07.26) morning.
They said in a statement: "It is with great sadness that today we announce the death of The Right Honourable Ann Widdecombe, DSG.
"We send our deepest condolences to Ann's family and friends."
Widdecombe, who was known for her honest opinions, was Conservative MP for Maidstone in Kent for 23 years, from 1987 until 2010, and she had several ministerial positions, including Shadow Home Secretary and Minister of State for Prisons, under former Prime Minister John Major, in the 1990s.
Although best known as a politician, Widdecombe became an even bigger household name in during her Strictly stint in 2010, when she was paired with Anton Du Beke.
Despite regularly scoring low marks with the judges, the pair managed to reach Week 10 before they were eliminated, and returned for the Strictly Christmas special in 2018.
Widdecombe also appeared on Celebrity Big Brother in 2018, finishing runner-up to winner Courtney Act in series 21.
During the series, she was criticised over her comments regarding the Harvey Weinstein controversy
The late star's other TV credits include hosting Have I Got News For You twice, in 2006 and 2007, which resulted in comedian Paul Merton dubbing her as the "queen of comedy", while she also appeared on the likes of BBC's Songs of Praise, Celebrity Antiques Road Trip, and The Crystal Maze.
