Teenager Faces Murder Charge After Body Discovered in Plymouth Marina
A 19-year-old male has been formally charged with murder following the tragic discovery of a young man's body in a marina in Plymouth, Devon. The victim has been identified as 24-year-old Drew Perham, who had been reported missing after a night out in the city.
Charges and Arrests in Fast-Paced Investigation
Layton Randle, aged 19 and of no fixed abode, now faces a murder charge in connection with this case. In addition to this charge, two other 19-year-old men—one from Plymouth and another from Exmouth—have been arrested on suspicion of murder and remain in police custody as enquiries continue.
The investigation began after Mr Perham was last seen around 1am on Saturday, January 24th. Devon and Cornwall Police were alerted to his disappearance and subsequently launched a missing person inquiry that quickly escalated into a murder investigation.
Marina Search and Police Presence
Officers established a cordon at Millbay Marina where specialist divers were deployed to search the waters. The police presence in the Millbay area has been described as significant, with Detective Superintendent James Dowler confirming the investigation has progressed at a rapid pace throughout the day.
Detective Superintendent Dowler stated: '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.'
Family's Heartbreaking Tribute
In an emotional statement released through police, Mr Perham's family expressed their devastation: '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.'
While formal identification procedures are still pending, police have confirmed their thoughts are with Drew's family and friends during what they describe as an 'unbelievably difficult time.'
Appeal for Information and Caution Against Speculation
Detective Superintendent Dowler has made a specific appeal for information from anyone who may have been in the Millbay area between 1am and 4am on Saturday, January 24th. He emphasized: '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.'
The police investigation continues as officers work to piece together the events leading to Mr Perham's death. Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is urged to contact Devon and Cornwall Police immediately.
