Detectives at Cumbria Police have launched a murder investigation following the disappearance of Paul Taylor, a missing man from Annan. The investigation took a new turn after receiving new information. Detective Chief Superintendent Dave Pattinson has urged the public to come forward with any information that may assist the police in understanding the circumstances surrounding Paul’s disappearance.
The police are particularly interested in speaking to anyone who had contact with Paul in the weeks leading up to his disappearance or who may have seen him or his car on the evening of Tuesday, October 17, as he travelled from Annan to Carlisle. Paul was driving a blue Corsa with the registration PY18 DYO, which detectives believe made its way through various areas in Carlisle before being found abandoned in Langwathby on the morning of Thursday, October 19.
To aid the investigation, the police have made several arrests. Two 19-year-old men from the Carlisle area have been arrested on suspicion of murder and are currently in police custody. Additionally, a 37-year-old man from Carlisle and a 17-year-old boy from Appleby have been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and are also in police custody.
Paul’s family is being supported by family liaison officers and has been informed of the change in the nature of the investigation.
The police have provided a timeline of events to help piece together Paul’s movements. He was last seen leaving his home in Annan on Tuesday, October 17 after 21.45. His car was spotted heading towards Carlisle shortly before midnight on the same day. There were potential sightings of the car in the Kingmoor South, Carlisle West, Yewdale, Sandsfield Park, and Brough Road areas. However, the police are still conducting inquiries to determine the exact route Paul took.
Anyone with information or who may have seen Paul’s car in the mentioned locations is urged to contact the police. Information can be provided by calling 101 or visiting the Cumbria Police website. Alternatively, information can be shared anonymously with Crimestoppers, either by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting their website.
