Parbold murder probe: 17-year-old arrested

A 17-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of murder last night and is currently in custody.

Alex Davies, 18, was reported missing from home in Skelmersdale on Tuesday, April 30. His body was found in a field on Wednesday, May 1,at 5.25pm near to the Miller and Carter steak house in Parbold. Police have not formally identified the body but believe it's Mr Davies.

His last confirmed sighting is at about 2pm on Monday, April 29 on Station Road in Parbold, near to the railway bridge. Mr Davies’ family have been informed of the arrest and continue to be supported by specially trained family liaison officers

A post mortem examination has been carried out and the cause of death has been established but for operational reasons police cannot disclose this at this time.

Officers said they are carrying out a number of enquiries in a bid to trace Alex’s movements from the time he went missing to the time his body was found.

Detective Chief Inspector Geoff Hurst, of Lancashire Police’s Force Major Investigation Team, said: “We recognise the impact this investigation has had in the Parbold area and would like to thank the community for its support.

"We can confirm officers investigating Alex's death have tonight arrested a 17-year-old boy on suspicion of murder. He is currently in custody.

"This is a truly shocking murder of a young man and my thoughts are with his family and friends at this desperately sad time. Alex was a much loved son and brother and his family are obviously distraught by what has happened.

“I have a dedicated team of officers and staff working on this enquiry.

“We are keeping an open mind for the reason Alex was in the Parbold area. I would appeal to anyone with information which could assist to come forward.

“We are carrying out CCTV and house to house enquiries in the area to try and piece together Alex’s movements but I need the public’s help as someone out there could hold the key to solving this horrendous crime.

“Furthermore, if you have seen anyone acting suspiciously or any unusual behaviour in the area in recent days, please come forward.

“You may think you are doing the right thing protecting them but if anyone does have suspicions about an individual I would ask them to search their conscience and do the right thing and contact police.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting log reference 0460 of May 3rd or independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Alternatively you can submit information through the major crime web portal at https://mipp.police.uk/operation/0401020119S01-PO1