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Murder probe launched after former British politician found dead at home

From CBS News · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Under investigation
  • A murder investigation has been launched into the death of former British politician Ann Widdecombe, who was found dead at her home in southwest England.
  • Police are searching for a White male suspect described as "clearly dangerous" by Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
  • Widdecombe, a former Conservative lawmaker known for her socially conservative views, had recently been active with the Reform UK party.

Police have launched a murder investigation into the death of Ann Widdecombe, a former Conservative member of Parliament, who was discovered dead at her home in Haytor, southwest England. The 78-year-old politician had sustained serious injuries, according to Devon and Cornwall Police.

sustained serious injuries

โ€” Devon and Cornwall PoliceDescribing the condition in which Ann Widdecombe was found.

Authorities are actively seeking a White male suspect, whom Prime Minister Keir Starmer described as "clearly dangerous." Starmer urged the public to come forward with any information that could help apprehend the individual, emphasizing the need to "get him into police custody."

clearly dangerous

โ€” Keir StarmerDescribing the suspect sought by police.

Widdecombe served as a Member of Parliament from 1987 to 2010, representing the Conservative Party. She was known for her socially conservative stances, notably opposing abortion and LGBTQ+ rights expansion. After leaving Parliament, she gained wider public recognition through appearances on reality television shows like "Strictly Come Dancing" and "Celebrity Big Brother."

get him into police custody

โ€” Keir StarmerUrging the public to assist in apprehending the suspect.

In her later career, Widdecombe joined the Brexit Party and became a spokeswoman for the anti-immigration Reform UK party. Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson remembered her as a "heroic Brexiteer and a great speaker." Her management company stated that her life was guided by strong Christian values and a commitment to public service, noting her continued engagement in political debate and campaigning.

heroic Brexiteer and a great speaker who could move Tory audiences to such ecstasy that she was a very hard act to follow.

โ€” Boris JohnsonRemembering Ann Widdecombe's political career.
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Originally published by CBS News. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.