A 26-year-old man arrested on suspicion of the murder of former British MP Ann Widdecombe has been released from police custody and is no longer under investigation, Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed.

Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman said detectives remain focused on identifying those responsible for the killing and are pursuing multiple lines of inquiry.

"Our priority remains identifying those responsible and ensuring that all available evidence is thoroughly examined," Longman said, adding that officers are committed to establishing the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

Body discovered at Devon home

Emergency services discovered Widdecombe's body with what police described as serious injuries at her home in Haytor, Devon, on Thursday morning after responding to a call.

Investigators say the inquiry is progressing rapidly, with specialist officers continuing forensic examinations and gathering evidence.

Police have urged anyone with information, no matter how minor it may seem, to come forward and assist the investigation. Authorities also appealed to the public to avoid speculation on social media, warning that misinformation could hinder the investigation and cause additional distress to the victim's family.

Initial suspect released

The man, a 26-year-old white British national, had been arrested in Newton Abbot, less than 10 miles from Widdecombe's residence, following police appeals linked to the investigation.

However, after further inquiries, detectives confirmed he has been released and is no longer considered a suspect.

Police also said there is currently no indication that the killing was politically motivated, and following consultation with counter-terrorism officers, investigators have ruled out terrorism as a motive.

Political leaders pay tribute

The death of Widdecombe has prompted tributes from across the political spectrum.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the incident as "really shocking," offering condolences to her family and praising her decades of public service.

Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch said she was stunned by the news, describing the killing as a horrific attack and expressing sympathy for Widdecombe's loved ones.

A long public career

Widdecombe served for many years as a Conservative MP before later joining the Brexit Party, where she represented South West England as a Member of the European Parliament between 2019 and 2020.

She later became immigration and justice spokesperson for Reform UK while remaining active in television and political commentary. Widdecombe had appeared on TalkTV the day before her body was discovered and had also been scheduled to appear on a Channel 5 programme but failed to join the broadcast, prompting concern among colleagues.

Police say the investigation remains active and have renewed their appeal for witnesses or anyone with relevant information to contact authorities.