Counter-terrorism police are now leading the investigation into the death of the former MP and Reform spokesperson Ann Widdecombe after “new information and evidence has come to light”, counter-terrorism policing south east said.
Widdecombe’s body was found with “serious injuries” by the ambulance service at her home in Haytor, Devon, at 11.40am on Thursday, Devon and Cornwall police said.
The force initially said counter-terrorism partners had reviewed the case and had ruled out a terrorist motive.
But on Monday counter-terrorism policing (CTP) confirmed it was now leading the investigation into the death of the former minister.
A 28-year-old white British man from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, was arrested on suspicion of murder on Saturday.
A statement from CTP said “new information and evidence has come to light during what has been a dynamic and complex investigation and as a result, counter-terrorism policing south east is now leading the investigation”.
The man in custody has since been rearrested on suspicion of commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.
The head of national counter-terrorism policing, Laurence Taylor, said: “Building on the progress made by our colleagues in Devon and Cornwall police, we now have new information and evidence that means counter-terrorism policing is now leading the investigation.
“We are pursuing multiple lines of enquiry to establish the motivation for this attack.
“Our priority is progressing this investigation quickly, with all the capabilities we have available to us. If anyone has any information, please share it with the police.”
More details soon …
