Key facts
- Counter-terrorism police are leading the investigation into the death of Ann Widdecombe.
- A 28-year-old man has been rearrested on suspicion of terrorism-related offenses.
- Ann Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her home with serious injuries.
- Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood offered Nigel Farage a security meeting.
- Police believe Widdecombe was attacked on Wednesday, July 10, 2026.
British counter-terrorism police are leading the investigation into the suspected murder of former lawmaker Ann Widdecombe, following new information and evidence. Widdecombe, 78, a former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokeswoman, was found dead at her home in Devon on Thursday, July 10, 2026, with serious injuries. The killing is now being investigated as a terrorist act. A 28-year-old man, initially arrested on suspicion of murder on Saturday, has been rearrested on suspicion of commission, preparation, or instigation of acts of terrorism. He can be held for up to two weeks without charge under terrorism laws, compared to 96 hours for murder suspects. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has offered Nigel Farage, leader of the Reform UK party, a security meeting following Widdecombe's death. Police believe Widdecombe was attacked around 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 9, 2026. The suspect, from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, was seen in CCTV footage hours before the attack. National Counter Terrorism Policing head Laurence Taylor stated that the investigation aims to establish the motivation for the attack.