Claire Hayhurst

John Peter Collins, 66, and his daughter Samantha Adele Collins, 32, drowned at Fistral Beach in Newquay after Samantha was dragged into the sea while they were fishing on rocks. Collins attempted to rescue her but was also swept into the water. Their deaths were provisionally attributed to drowning, and a joint inquest was adjourned until July 19, 2027. Police are also seeking the return of Samantha's orange or peach handbag, which was believed to contain items of sentimental value.

Police confirmed that human remains found in the River Taw near Barnstaple on 24 June were those of 15-year-old Taylor Charlton, who had been missing since 8 May. Two people arrested during the investigation remain on police bail, while detectives continue to establish the circumstances of his death. Police have urged the public not to speculate or share unconfirmed information and asked anyone with relevant information to contact them.

Dyfed-Powys Police has launched a murder investigation into the death of 92-year-old Bentley Mathias, who died at Morriston Hospital in Swansea on 19 November 1991. His death was originally attributed to a brain haemorrhage and was not considered suspicious. New information led police to arrest a 67-year-old man from the Llandewi Velfrey area of Pembrokeshire on suspicion of murder; he has been bailed while inquiries continue, and police say they are not seeking anyone else in connection with the case.

A jury at Bristol Crown Court unanimously convicted Tony Bartlett of murdering his four‑week‑old son Atticus, who died from catastrophic injuries inflicted when Bartlett violently shook him after drinking heavily. The baby collapsed at the family home in Chard, Somerset, in July 2022 and never regained consciousness. Bartlett denied harming his son, but medical evidence and witness testimony supported the prosecution’s case. He will receive a mandatory life sentence, with the minimum term to be set at sentencing later this month. Police described the case as devastating and praised the family’s courage throughout the investigation and trial.