Mum of boy, 15, found in river says ‘I have nothing to do with my son’s murder’ as woman in 40s arrested

Murder detectives ‘acting on new information’ have arrested a woman on suspicion of killing a teenage boy.

Taylor Charlton, 15, vanished from his Barnstaple home on May 8.

His last confirmed sighting was on CCTV near the Tarka Leisure center and the Seven Brethren car park at 10.41pm, when he was pictured walking in the direction of the River Taw.

His body was found 48 days later in the River Taw near Sticklepath.

Taylor’s mother, Zoe Harvey, revealed she was targeted by a sickening direct message mocking her son’s death and comparing it to the high-profile case of Jay Slater.

She posted on Facebook following the arrest: ‘I am nothing to do with my son’s murder.’

She liked a post saying: ‘I would like to make it absolutely clear that it was not Taylor’s grieving, heartbroken mother who was arrested today.

‘The speculation, disrespect, arrogance and harmful comments need to stop.

‘Taylor’s family and friends have lost a son, brother, grandson, nephew and best friend. Please show some decency and respect during this incredibly difficult time.’

Devon and Cornwall Police said: ‘A woman has been arrested in connection with an investigation into the disappearance of Taylor Charlton in Barnstaple.

‘Acting on new information, an arrest on suspicion of murder has been made by police. This took place in the North Devon area on Thursday 2 July.

‘We have received new information and as a result have taken swift action to fully understand this.’

They added: ‘That has included the arrest today of a woman, aged in her 40s, who will be interviewed as part of our enquiries.

‘While the suspect has been arrested on suspicion of murder, we would like to stress that this is a new line of enquiry and it is at an extremely early stage.

‘We will provide further updates when we are able to.

‘Taylor’s family have been informed of this development and continue to be supported by specially-trained officers.

‘The arrest made today remains one line of enquiry among many and officers are working tirelessly to ensure this, and all, avenues are fully investigated.

‘We appreciate how upsetting this news will be for Taylor’s family, friends, and the wider community.

‘We are asking members of the public to help our investigation by avoiding speculation and by not sharing any unconfirmed information online.’

This is a breaking news story… More to follow…