A 20-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder in connection to the disappearance of a teenage boy from Devon.
Police made an arrest at a property in the North Devon area this morning (Friday, June 12) after "new information" was reported in the search for missing 15-year-old Taylor Charlton.
Taylor was last seen on CCTV near a footpath near the Tarka Leisure Centre and the Seven Brethren car park, Barnstaple on Friday, May 8, at around 10.40pm.
He was seen heading in the direction of the River Taw, DevonLive reports.
Senior Investigation Officer Detective Inspector Charlotte Heath said: “Devon and Cornwall Police, supported by specialists from neighbouring forces, have committed extensive resources to finding Taylor over the last five weeks.
“Sadly, despite this, his whereabouts remain unknown. Much of the information we have gathered does not indicate the involvement of a third-party.
“This week, we have received new information that someone may have been involved in harming Taylor and, as a result, we have taken action to fully understand this.
“That has included the arrest today of a male and his subsequent police interview. Taylor’s family have been informed of this development.
“This remains one line of enquiry, amid many, and we will leave no stone unturned.
“Our thoughts are very much with his family and friends at this difficult time.”
Sector Inspector Andy Wills added: “We remain committed to find answers for Taylor’s loved-ones and fully assessing and acting upon any new intelligence that comes to light as part of this.
“We remain open-minded and all lines of enquiry will be thoroughly reviewed in order to ensure we understand, as far as we are able, what has happened to Taylor.
“Our officers are working tirelessly to ensure this, and all, relevant lines of enquiry are fully investigated.
“We know how upsetting and concerning this news will be for Taylor’s family, friends, and the wider community.
“Taylor’s family continue to be updated and supported by specialist officers.
“We are asking members of the public to help us by avoiding speculation, especially sharing any unconfirmed information online, and allowing detectives to continue our investigation.”
Officers are still appealing for anyone who was in the area, witnessed anything, or who has CCTV footage around the time Taylor was last seen to contact the force quoting the reference number 50260117084.