Barnstaple search intensifies as teenager remains missing
Extensive investigation launched to find 14-year-old Taylor Charlton
Efforts to locate 14-year-old Taylor Charlton in Barnstaple remain ongoing after extensive physical searches around the River Taw and nearby estuary have concluded.
Taylor was last seen in the Tesco Extra car park on Station Road at approximately 10.30pm on Friday, 8th May. CCTV footage captured him moving in the direction of the River Taw.
He was reported missing at approximately 5.15pm the following day, Saturday 9th May.
Significantly Resourced Search Operations
During the search operations, teams equipped with sonar technology deployed a boat and divers to probe the waterway on Thursday, 21st May.
The investigation also utilised drones, search dogs, and a police helicopter, with input from HM Coastguard concerning tidal conditions in the estuary.
Shoes believed to belong to Taylor were discovered on the high tide line of the riverbank between Sticklepath and Bickington on consecutive days on 13th and 14th May, about 480 metres apart.
Detectives suspect that Taylor may have entered the water, though all avenues of inquiry remain open.
Ongoing Investigation Efforts
The search operation forms part of a broader investigation led by multiple officers conducting extensive reviews of information, CCTV footage, and witness accounts.
House-to-house and digital inquests have been conducted, and sector Inspector Andy Wills provided assurances about the ongoing commitment to the investigation:
“We fully understand how difficult and upsetting this continues to be for Taylor’s family, friends, and the wider community.
“Our thoughts remain firmly with them. Taylor’s family continue to be updated and supported by specially-trained officers.
“The River Taw and its estuary present an extremely challenging environment to search, particularly given tidal conditions.
“Over the past week, a rigorous and methodical search of the area has been conducted with support from specialist resources and equipment and partner agencies.
“I want to reassure the public that our investigation remains very much active.
“Detectives continue to carry out extensive enquiries, review information, and carefully assess any new intelligence that comes to light.
“Our commitment to doing everything we can to provide clarity and to find answers for Taylor’s loved-ones will not stop.
“Further searches can and will take place if further information comes to light as part of continuing enquiries.
“We are very grateful for the support shown by the local community throughout this difficult time. It has been significant and deeply appreciated.
“We would continue to urge anyone with information, no matter how small it may seem to them, to come forward and speak to us.”
Appeal for Assistance
Inspector Wills expressed gratitude towards the local community and urged any individuals with information to come forward.
Anyone with any details, regardless of perceived significance, is encouraged to contact the police by calling 999 and quoting reference number 50260117084.