British police said they believe former minister and Reform UK party politician Ann Widdecombe was attacked about 24 hours before she was found dead at her home on Thursday morning.

Devon and Cornwall Police said in an update on their website Saturday that investigations are 'progressing quickly to identify a suspect believed to be a man with European features.'

They added: 'We believe the attack occurred on Wednesday, July 8 at around 12:30 p.m.,' according to Bloomberg News.

Police said a 26-year-old man arrested Friday on suspicion of murder has since been released and is no longer part of the investigation.

Deputy Chief Constable Matt Longman earlier said the incident is not being treated as a terrorist act, and police have no information suggesting a political motive behind it.

Police appealed to the public for any information, photos, or video recordings related to the attack.

Widdecombe, 78, who appeared in media interviews on Wednesday, was found dead by ambulance services at her home in Devon county before noon on Thursday. Police said she suffered serious injuries and launched a murder investigation. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood urged the public to avoid speculation and allow the investigation to proceed.