47-year-old man's body identified
A man has been charged with murder in East Devon, following a caravan fire on Thursday [9 January].
30-year-old Lewis Finch, from Newton Drive in Exmouth, appeared before Magistrates in Exeter on Saturday, after a body was found at a scrapyard near Newton Poppleford.
The deceased, 47-year-old Geoffrey Pearce, was from the village. His next of kin have been informed.
DI Lee Nattrass said: “Given this is now subject to formal court proceedings, we would remind everyone that Contempt of Court rules apply. It is therefore essential that no-one speculates about the investigation, particularly on social media. It is essential that we maintain the fairness and integrity of the court process.”
Superintendent Matt Lawler said: “Police activity will continue at the scene in Newton Poppleford and on Cheshire Road in Exmouth. This will likely to continue into the weekend, however, neighbouring roads and properties will remain unaffected.
“We would like to thank the local community for their co-operation during this enquiry.”
Knife scanner deployed at under-18s event
No to Torquay seafront big wheel this summer?
Torbay hospital ‘sewage leaks’ spark call for help
Exmouth dye tests 'harmless to wildlife'
Dartmoor will be “protected” in Freeport zone
Two jailed after late night brawl in Plymouth
