A woman in her 40s has been taken into custody under suspicion of murder after a body was found during the search for a missing teenager. The investigation into the disappearance of Taylor Charlton, a 15-year-old from north Devon, led to this arrest. The teenager was last seen on May 8, prompting an extensive search effort. Recently, authorities recovered a body from the River Taw near Sticklepath, Barnstaple, believed to be that of Taylor.

Devon and Cornwall Police announced the arrest, revealing that new information prompted the action. While the woman is being held on suspicion of murder, the investigation is still in its early stages. A police spokesman emphasized that the family of Taylor has been notified and is receiving support from trained officers.

This arrest marks the second in the case, as a 20-year-old man was previously detained and later released on bail. Taylor, who was 14 when he disappeared but has since turned 15, was last seen on CCTV near the Tarka leisure center in Barnstaple, heading towards the River Taw. His parents, Zoe and Alex, have made emotional appeals for his safe return.

The discovery of suspected human remains in the River Taw triggered the police response, leading to the recovery of the body. Formal identification is pending, but Taylor’s family has been informed and is being assisted by specialists. The community is urged to refrain from speculation and await updates from the authorities as the investigation progresses.