Counter Terrorism Police have taken over the investigation into the death of Ann Widdecombe after new information and evidence emerged, with a 28-year-old white British man from Rotherham re-arrested on suspicion of commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.
The man was initially arrested on suspicion of murder on Saturday following the discovery of 78-year-old Widdecombe at her home in Haytor, Devon on Thursday. She had sustained serious injuries.
His arrest came after a manhunt at about 21:00 on Saturday. Police later found new evidence during the investigation that led to the re-arrest.
CCTV shows suspect hours before attack
CCTV footage time-stamped at 07:51 on Wednesday shows the suspect dressed in a white shirt and shorts getting into a red vehicle outside a house in Rotherham. A long object appears to protrude from his shorts pocket.
The distance between Widdecombe's home in Devon and Rotherham is approximately 270 miles — about a four-and-a-half-hour drive.
Rotherham search
At least two police vehicles were parked outside a property in Rotherham believed connected to the investigation on Sunday. The property was cordoned off while officers and forensic teams worked at the scene.
One neighbour told BBC News: "I was making some food in the kitchen and looked out the window, there was loads of banging, and there was armed police in the pathway and they just went into the house and pulled [the suspect] out."
Another neighbour said police took a red car from the drive.
Investigation continues
Laurence Taylor, head of National Counter Terrorism Policing, said: "We are pursuing multiple lines of enquiry to establish the motivation for this attack."
He added: "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."
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said she would update the House of Commons about the investigation.