Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, said she was shocked and saddened by the death of Conservative MP Sir David Amess.
Sir David, an MP of 38 years, died this afternoon after an incident at his constituency surgery in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, during which he sustained stab wounds. Police have arrested a man on suspicion of murder.
Commissioner Hernandez said: “I am absolutely shocked and extremely saddened by this news.
“Sir David was a lovely, gentle, respected and funny man whose recent book – ‘Ayes and Ears’ – I had not long purchased.
“This is extremely disturbing news and has sent shockwaves across our country today.
“My heartfelt thoughts and condolences are with Sir David’s family at this terribly tragic time.”