Multiple Arrests Made in Exmouth Murder Investigation

Devon and Cornwall Police have arrested a fifth man, a 26-year-old from Exmouth, on suspicion of murder in connection with the stabbing death of 24-year-old Denva Smith, who was found fatally wounded in a garden at Ashfield Close, Exmouth on May 31. Emergency services responded to reports of an assault just after midnight, but Smith died at the scene from a single stab wound despite paramedics' efforts. Prior to this latest arrest, four men—including Zac Davies, Dylan Chadwick, Ben Mason, and Thomas Ward—were charged with murder and appeared at Exeter Magistrates’ Court; they are scheduled for a plea and trial preparation hearing in July. Additionally, two men and a woman were arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender but have since been released on police bail. The investigation remains active, with detectives continuing to interview the latest suspect and pursue further inquiries. The police have informed Smith's next of kin and are working to bring all those responsible to justice.