Devon and Cornwall Police have announced that a man and a woman are no longer suspects in the death of 15-year-old Taylor Charlton. The teenager was last seen in Barnstaple, Devon, on the evening of May 8.
An extensive search operation was conducted before Charlton's remains were discovered in the River Taw near Sticklepath on June 24. Following his disappearance, a man in his 20s and a woman in her 40s were arrested on suspicion of murder. Both were released on police bail.
Senior investigating officer Detective Inspector Elaine Westerman stated that the arrests were made as part of a thorough investigation into all possible avenues. "Following a full and thorough investigation, we are satisfied that neither of these individuals have had any involvement in Taylor's disappearance or death," Westerman said.
Police have indicated that there is currently no indication of third-party involvement in Charlton's death, and it is not being treated as suspicious. A file will be prepared for HM Coroner.
Taylor Charlton, who was 14 when he went missing and had since had a birthday, was last seen on CCTV footage near a footpath close to the Tarka leisure centre in Barnstaple, heading in the direction of the River Taw. His family has been updated on the developments and continues to receive support from specially trained officers. Police are urging the public to avoid speculation and the sharing of unconfirmed information online.