A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of murder over the disappearance of a teenager eight weeks ago.
Taylor Charlton, now 15, vanished on May 8 from Barnstaple, Devon and hasn’t been seen since.
Since reports of Taylor’s disappearance, extensive searches have been carried out to find the teen.
On May 13 and 14, police found his blue Nike shoes by the high tide line of the riverbank between Sticklepath and Bickington around 500m apart.
Now, new information has been reported to detectives working on the investigation, which has led to the man’s arrest on suspicion of murder.
The suspect, 20, was taken from an address in North Devon into police custody today where he remains.
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.”
The last sighting of Taylor is on CCTV near a footpath close to Tarka Leisure Centre and the Seven Brethren car park at 10.41pm.
He was seen heading in the direction of the River Taw.
Police are urging anyone with CCTV footage in that immediate area to contact them.
Taylor’s heartbroken mum Zoe said last week: “I am absolutely desperate for you to come home.
“You are not in any trouble, please reach out to someone. We are all waiting for you with open arms.”
His dad Alex said: “Taylor is a loving, loyal and special lad and we can’t wait to have him home again.”
