Police in Devon and Cornwall are investigating the death of former Conservative MP and prisons minister Ann Widdecombe, after she is found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor. Multiple outlets report that officers were called to the property shortly after midday on Thursday, following concerns about her welfare, and that Widdecombe was found with serious injuries. A murder investigation is launched, with police examining the circumstances surrounding her death.

Some reports state that a man is arrested and held in connection with the investigation, and that police subsequently release him from custody while inquiries continue. Several outlets also cite that preliminary inquiries are ongoing and that an official update is expected from police. Politicians including the prime minister and senior Conservative and Reform figures issue public tributes to Widdecombe following news of her death.

The case is being treated as a homicide as police continue enquiries and the coroner’s office conducts preliminary inquiries.