A woman in her 40s has been taken into custody on suspicion of murder in connection with the disappearance of teenager Taylor Charlton in north Devon. The 15-year-old was last seen on May 8, and efforts to locate him have been extensive. Recently, authorities recovered a body from the River Taw near Sticklepath, Barnstaple, believed to be that of the missing teenager.
Devon and Cornwall Police have announced the arrest of the woman following new information obtained in the ongoing investigation. The spokesperson stated that the woman would be interviewed as part of the inquiries. While the suspect is being held on suspicion of murder, it is emphasized that this is a new lead in the investigation and is in its early stages.
Taylor’s family has been informed of the latest developments and is receiving support from trained officers. This arrest marks the second in the investigation into Taylor’s disappearance, with a 20-year-old man previously detained and subsequently released on bail.
Taylor, originally from Barnstaple, was 14 when he went missing but has since turned 15. The final confirmed sighting of Taylor was captured on CCTV near a footpath close to the Tarka leisure center in Barnstaple, heading towards the River Taw. In a heartfelt plea, his mother Zoe expressed her deep concern and desire for his safe return, while his father Alex described Taylor as a loving and special individual eagerly awaited at home.
Police responded to a report of suspected human remains in the River Taw on June 24. The body was located and recovered from the water by emergency services. Although formal identification is pending, the family of Taylor Charlton has been informed and is receiving specialized support. The public is urged to refrain from speculation and await official updates as investigations continue in the area.