Devon Police Mount Extensive Search for Missing 14-Year-Old Taylor Charlton
Detectives and specialist search teams in Devon are continuing extensive enquiries to locate missing 14-year-old Taylor Charlton. Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed ongoing search activity around the River Taw in Barnstaple, as the community responds to appeals for information.
Description and Last Sighting
Taylor, described as 5ft 8in, muscular, with dark brown hair and a moustache, was last observed wearing a bright blue fitted top, jeans, and bright blue Nike shoes. He was reported missing on the evening of 9 May, having last been seen at approximately 22:40 BST on 8 May, near a Tesco in the Seven Brethren area. Police have indicated he may have entered the water.
Multi-Agency Search Efforts
The search operation involves multiple agencies, including fire crews, the RNLI, and HM Coastguard. North Dartmoor Search and Rescue, alongside Exmoor counterparts, has assisted in covering coastal paths, river banks, woodlands, abandoned buildings, and streets. A pair of shoes believed to belong to Taylor were recovered on Friday.
Authorities have thanked the public for their significant response but urged individuals to avoid self-initiated searches near water or unsafe structures, emphasising the risks involved. The police reiterated calls to refrain from sharing unconfirmed information on social media channels, stating that all avenues of enquiry are being pursued.
