A woman in her 40s has been apprehended on suspicion of committing murder after the detection of a deceased individual during the search for a teenage boy who was reported missing.
The missing person, Taylor Charlton, aged 15, was last seen on the evening of May 8 in north Devon. Following an extensive search operation, authorities recovered a body from the River Taw near Sticklepath, Barnstaple, believed to be that of the teenager.
Devon and Cornwall Police have disclosed that recent information prompted the arrest of the woman, emphasizing that the investigation is still in its early stages. A spokesperson stated that the new information led to swift action resulting in the arrest of the woman, who is now under scrutiny as part of the ongoing investigation.
While the suspect has been detained on suspicion of murder, officials stressed that this is a fresh lead and the probe is at a very preliminary phase. The family of Taylor has been notified of this development and is receiving support from trained personnel.
This arrest marks the second in connection with the disappearance of Taylor. Previously, a 20-year-old man was held on suspicion of murder and subsequently released on bail.
Taylor, originally from Barnstaple, was 14 when he went missing, but has since celebrated a birthday. The last 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, Taylor’s mother Zoe expressed her deep concern for his return, while his father, Alex, described him as a loving and special individual eagerly awaited at home.
Authorities were alerted to the presence of suspected human remains in the River Taw on Wednesday, June 24, leading to the recovery of a body by emergency services.
A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed that formal identification is pending, with Taylor’s family being informed of the discovery. The community is urged to await official updates from the police and refrain from speculation during this sensitive time. Police presence around the river will be maintained as inquiries continue.