Police 'considering left-wing motive' in Ann Widdecombe murder probe

The investigation into the death of 78-year-old Ann Widdecombe has moved into a new phase as counter-terrorism officers examine whether the suspect was driven by left-wing extremist ideology. Detectives have confirmed the killing, which occurred at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor, Devon, was a "targeted attack."

Widdecombe, a former Member of Parliament and European Parliament member who most recently aligned with the Reform UK party, was discovered dead on Thursday. Police believe the attack took place on Wednesday at approximately 12:30pm.

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A 28-year-old white British man remains in custody following his arrest on Saturday in South Yorkshire. He is currently being held on suspicion of murder and on suspicion of the commission, preparation, or instigation of acts of terrorism. Authorities have obtained an extended detention warrant under the Terrorism Act, allowing for his continued questioning.

Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, head of National Counter Terrorism Policing, addressed the press on Tuesday regarding the progression of the case. While confirming that counter-terrorism units assumed control after the emergence of new evidence, he noted that the murder and terror investigations are proceeding in parallel. Regarding the possibility that the suspect was targeting other Reform UK figures, Taylor stated:

"So clearly, part of our responsibility when investigating offences of this nature is to assure ourselves and therefore the public and others of any extant of threat. That will form a line of investigation to ensure that we are putting all appropriate measures in place to mitigate any threat, should it become apparent."

Investigators are specifically examining whether a television appearance Widdecombe made via video-link on the morning of Wednesday served as a catalyst for the violence. Taylor confirmed that this is a current "line of inquiry" as police work to determine the scope of any planning or preparation undertaken by the suspect. Although searches have been conducted at the suspect's residence, officials have declined to provide specific details regarding the evidence recovered.

The transition of the investigation to counter-terrorism command has prompted scrutiny of the initial response by Devon and Cornwall Police. The force had previously stated that the killing was not believed to be terror-related. Alison Hernandez, the police and crime commissioner, defended the force, noting that the nature of fast-paced investigations often evolves as new information becomes available.

The killing of the former prisons minister has caused significant alarm within the political establishment. Incoming prime minister Andy Burnham issued a statement following the latest police briefing, calling for a review of safety protocols for elected officials.

"It’s obviously appalling what happened to Ann. I knew Ann over many years in the House, and you know, we would get along – and everybody would get along. But it feels as though something has changed. It’s easy to blame social media, but it feels like it’s having some impact in just building that kind of toxicity that’s around the political debate."

"I do think we need now a serious review of MPs’ security."

Widdecombe’s death follows two previous incidents of violence against British politicians: the 2016 murder of Labour MP Jo Cox, killed by a far-right extremist, and the 2021 stabbing of Conservative MP Sir David Amess by an attacker inspired by the Islamic State group.

As the investigation continues, the suspect remains in custody. Because no formal charges have been brought, police have not disclosed his name.