See more Daily Mail on Google - save us as a Preferred SourceBy ELEANOR MANN Published: 17:31 BST, 12 June 2026 | Updated: 18:43 BST, 12 June 2026
A 20-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murdering a schoolboy who went missing over a month ago.Taylor Charlton, 15, was last seen near a river on the night of May 8 before he disappeared, triggering an extensive police operation to find him. Today, Devon and Cornwall Police said a man had been detained in the north Devon area in connection with the teenager's disappearance. Detective Inspector Charlotte Heath, leading the investigation, 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 inquiry, amid many, and we will leave no stone unturned.'Our thoughts are very much with his family and friends at this difficult time.' Taylor Charlton (pictured) has been missing for two months and was last seen near a river in Devon Taylor is described as about 5ft 8ins tall, of muscular build, with dark brown hair and a moustachePolice said the detained man remains in custody and inquiries are taking place at several locations as part of the investigation. Taylor was last seen on CCTV near a footpath close to Tarka Leisure Centre in Barnstaple, where the schoolboy is from. He was seen heading in the direction of the River Taw. He is described as about 5ft 8ins tall, of muscular build, with dark brown hair and a moustache. Taylor, who turned 15 since his disappearance, was last seen wearing a bright blue fitted top, jeans and bright blue Nike shoes.In a previous public appeal, Taylor's mother, Zoe, said: 'Taylor, I am absolutely desperate for you to come home. I love you so much and I am worried sick about you.'You are not in trouble. Please reach out to someone. We are all waiting for you with open arms.'His father Alex added: 'If there is anything anyone knows, please come forward.'Taylor is a loving, loyal and special lad and we can't wait to have him home again.'
