Police confirmed on July 31 that the body found in the River Taw on June 24 is 14-year-old Taylor Charlton, who went missing after being last seen in Barnstaple on May 8. Two people — a woman in her 40s and a man in his 20s — have been arrested on suspicion of murder and are currently on bail. A large-scale search and a substantial investigation were launched after the disappearance, and Taylor's family are being supported by specialist officers as inquiries continue.
Missing Teen Identified: Body Found in River Taw Confirmed as 14-Year-Old Taylor Charlton; Two Arrested
Taylor CharltonCredit: Devon & Cornwall Police
Police in southwestern England have confirmed that the body recovered from the River Taw on June 24 is that of missing teenager Taylor Charlton. The Devon and Cornwall Police announced that the 14-year-old, who was last seen in Barnstaple on the night of May 8, was officially identified on Friday, July 31.
Officers said they were "extremely saddened" to confirm the identification and acknowledged the impact the news will have on the local community. "This is not the outcome that anyone hoped for and we know how deeply this will affect the local community who have shown tremendous support throughout the search," the force added.
Investigation and Arrests
A large-scale search operation and a substantial criminal investigation were launched after Charlton was reported missing. According to police, two people have been arrested in connection with the case: a woman in her 40s and a man in his 20s. Both were arrested on suspicion of murder and currently remain on bail while inquiries continue.
"An investigation into the circumstances surrounding Taylor's death remains ongoing and detectives will continue to establish the full facts," the Devon and Cornwall Police said.
Taylor's family are being supported by specialist officers during what the police described as an incredibly difficult and distressing time.
Authorities have not released further details about the circumstances of Charlton's disappearance or the arrests while the investigation is active. Detectives have urged anyone with information related to the case to contact Devon and Cornwall Police.
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