Man charged with murder after fatal caravan fire in Newton Poppleford

A 30-year-old man has been charged with the murder of a man in Newton Poppleford following a caravan fire on Thursday.

Lewis Finch, aged 30 from Nelson Drive in Exmouth, has been charged with the murder of 47-year-old Geoffery Pearce who was from Newton Poppleford.

DI Lee Nattrass said: "Lewis Finch has been remanded in police custody and will appear before Exeter Magistrates' Court tomorrow morning, Saturday, January 11.

"We have also now formally identified the body to be that of Mr Pearce and next of kin are aware.

"Given this is now subject to formal court proceedings, we would remind everyone that Contempt of Court rules apply.

"It is therefore essential that no-one speculates about the investigation, particularly on social media. It is essential that we maintain the fairness and integrity of the court process."

Superintendent Matt Lawler said: "Police activity will continue at the scene in Newton Poppleford and on Cheshire Road in Exmouth. This will likely to continue into the weekend, however, neighbouring roads and properties will remain unaffected.

"We would like to thank the local community for their co-operation during this enquiry."

Police were notified at around 2.30am on Thursday, January 7, to reports of the fire and for the concerns of the welfare of a man within the caravan.

Officers, along with fire and ambulance services, attended the scene where a man in his 40s, who was believed to be living in the caravan, was pronounced deceased.

The investigation is being led by the Major Crime Investigation Team, supported by local detectives, forensic staff, family liaison officers, neighbourhood and response teams.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the police via 101 quoting log number 61 090120.

Information can also be passed anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555111.

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