Ann Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her home in Devon after sustaining serious injuries in an attack believed to have occurred the previous day.Police have confirmed the death was a 'targeted attack' and are investigating the motive, though no official link to terrorism has been declared.A 28-year-old white British man was arrested in Rotherham on suspicion of murder and later re-arrested on terrorism charges.

Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor emphasized the investigation is 'running in parallel' with a murder inquiry, but cautioned against speculation about the suspect's motives or potential foreign involvement.

The case was transferred from Devon and Cornwall Police to counter-terrorism units following new evidence, with Taylor stating the force's response was 'substantial and professional'.

Widdecombe, a former Conservative MP and Reform UK spokeswoman, had appeared on Talk TV the morning of her death, and her pre-recorded interview, which was not broadcast, has been shared with media.

The police commissioner defended the force's handling of the case, acknowledging past criticism but asserting the investigation remains focused on the murder.Family members have described the attack as having a 'deeply distressing impact'.