In a tragic development, the body of a missing man has been recovered from a marina in Plymouth, Devon, with police arresting a teenager on suspicion of murder. Drew Perham, aged 24, had not been seen since he went on a night out in the city on Friday evening.
Police Investigation Underway
Devon and Cornwall Police reported Mr Perham missing after he was last spotted at approximately 1am on Saturday morning. The force has now confirmed that officers retrieved his body from the sea at Millbay Marina. A 19-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with the incident and remains in police custody.
Scene Secured and Family Informed
Officers established a cordon at the marina and launched a comprehensive investigation, which included divers examining the waters. While formal identification is still pending, police have notified Mr Perham's family of the discovery.
In a heartfelt statement, Drew's family expressed their grief: 'We have unfortunately received the most horrendous news, our beautiful and wonderful Drew Perham has cruelly been taken from us. We appreciate all the support and messages, but right now we need the time to navigate this together.'
Appeal for Information
Police are urging the public to come forward with any information that could aid their investigation. They are particularly interested in speaking to individuals who were in the Millbay area during the early hours of Saturday morning, between 1am and 4am.
Detective's Statement
Detective Superintendent James Dowler commented on the ongoing probe: 'This investigation has been very fast paced, and the community will be aware of the significant policing presence that has been in the Millbay area as our enquiries have progressed throughout the day. This will continue in the coming days.'
He added: 'Formal identification is yet to take place, however, all of our thoughts are with Drew's family and friends at this unbelievably difficult time. I would like to ask people to avoid speculating about this case – we are in the early stages of our investigation to establish the full circumstances and online speculation in particular, is not helpful.'
Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact the police to assist with the inquiry.
