Murder detectives have arrested a woman in her 40s on suspicion of killing a teenage boy after receiving new information in the case of missing Taylor Charlton. The 15-year-old vanished from his Barnstaple home on May 8, and his last confirmed sighting was captured on CCTV near the Tarka Leisure Centre and the Seven Brethren car park at 10.41pm, walking toward the River Taw.
Arrest made in North Devon
Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed the arrest on Thursday, July 2, in the North Devon area. In a statement, they said: 'A woman has been arrested in connection with an investigation into the disappearance of Taylor Charlton in Barnstaple. Acting on new information, an arrest on suspicion of murder has been made by police.' The suspect is a woman aged in her 40s who will be interviewed as part of the investigation.
Police urge caution
The force stressed that the arrest is a new line of enquiry at an extremely early stage. 'While the suspect has been arrested on suspicion of murder, we would like to stress that this is a new line of enquiry and it is at an extremely early stage,' they said. 'We will provide further updates when we are able to.' Taylor's family have been informed and are being supported by specially-trained officers.
Appeal to the public
Police are asking the public to avoid speculation and not share unconfirmed information online. 'The arrest made today remains one line of enquiry among many and officers are working tirelessly to ensure this, and all, avenues are fully investigated,' they added. 'We appreciate how upsetting this news will be for Taylor's family, friends, and the wider community.'
This is a breaking news story and more details are expected to follow.
