Police Release Full Statement on Ann Widdecombe's 'Murder' as Manhunt Gets Underway

POLICE have launched a murder investigation following the death of Ann Widdecombe – this is their statement in full.

was found dead at her home in Dartmoor, Devon, on Thursday, aged 78.

Ann Widdecombe has died aged 78 Credit: Getty The former Tory MP was found dead at her home in Dartmoor on Thursday Credit: Stuart Clarke

Devon and Cornwall Police have now issued a full statement confirming the probe.

They said: “A murder investigation has been launched following the suspicious death of former MP Ann Widdecombe at her home on Dartmoor in Devon.

“Police officers were called to an address at Haytor by the ambulance service at around 11.40am on Thursday 9 July.

“Sadly, 78-year-old Miss Widdecombe was located deceased within the property. She had sustained serious injuries.

“Her next-of-kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.

“Detectives from the Force Major Crime Investigation Team have launched a murder investigation and are conducting extensive enquiries into the circumstances surrounding Miss Widdecombe’s death.

“A cordon remains in place at the property while specialist officers continue forensic examinations. There are road closures in place around the scene.

“The public will see a significant police presence in the area today while detectives and officers conduct house-to-house and CCTV enquiries.”

Detective Chief Inspector Ilona Rosson added: “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.

“We are particularly keen to hear from 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.

“We have an increased uniformed police presence in the area to both support the investigation and provide reassurance to residents. Anyone with concerns can speak with our officers at the scene.

“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.”

It is understood Widdecombe was found covered in blood after sustaining a serious head wound.

Officers attended her home and spoke to a carer who worked for the former MP and is believed to have found her body.

News of the police probe into the death of the politician’s death will stun the world of politics and her many supporters and admirers.

Ann also spent time as Education Minister and Prisons Minister in then-Prime Minister ‘s cabinet.

Following her retirement from in 2010, Widdecombe swapped the Commons for the ballroom and starred in ‘s .

went on to appear in ITV favourite , where she finished runner-up to Aussie singer .

Issuing a statement, her management said: “It is with great sadness that today we announce the death of the Rt Hon Ann Widdecombe, DSG.

“Her life and career were driven by her strong Christian values and commitment to public service.

“She loved the cut and thrust of political debate and, 16 years after leaving Parliament, was still actively campaigning for .

“Ann was a valued patron of many causes, particularly her animal charities.

“As Ann once said on The Show, ‘we get one go this side of eternity, one go. Life is not a dress rehearsal, you take opportunities that you like and you go for it, that’s my philosophy’.

“We send our deepest condolences to Ann’s family and friends.

“We ask that the family’s wish not to be contacted at this sad time is respected.”