Taylor Charlton was 14 when he disappeared from Barnstaple in Devon on May 8, sparking a massive search and rescue effort from the local community and emergency services
Police have confirmed that human remains found in a river in Devon are missing teenager Taylor Charlton.
Taylor, 14 at the time of his disappearance, went missing on the night of Friday May 8 in Barnstaple, sparking an extensive operation to find him.
Police said the support shown by the local community since Taylor was reported missing had been “tremendous”.
Volunteers and members of the police searched tirelessly to find Taylor. Tragically, Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed today that remains found in the River Taw on June 24 belonged to Taylor, Devon Live reports.
Police arrested a 20-year-old man on suspicion of murder on June 12. He was later released on bail while investigations continued.
On July 2, a woman in her 40s was also arrested on suspicion of murder. She has since been released on bail pending further enquiries.
Police say there is an ongoing investigation into the circumstances of Taylor’s death, and detectives will “continue to establish the full facts”.
Devon and Cornwall Police said: “Taylor’s family have been updated of this development and our thoughts and condolences are with them, Taylor’s friends and the local community.
“Taylor’s loved-ones continue to be supported by specialist officers at this incredibly difficult and distressing time.
“We respectfully ask that the family’s privacy is respected as they come to terms with this tragic news.
“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.
“An investigation into the circumstances surrounding Taylor’s death remains ongoing and detectives will continue to establish the full facts.”
Police have asked people not to speculate about the case or share unconfirmed information online while enquiries continue.
Anyone with information that could help the investigation has been asked to contact police.