TWO men have tonight been charged with murder after the body of a missing teenager was found following a six-week search.
Kieran Williams, 18, was found dead in Sunderland on June 2 after vanishing on April 18.
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Cops arrested two men, both aged 19, after the horror discovery.
Both have now been charged.
They will appear before magistrates in South Tyneside on Monday morning.
Two more men, aged 20 and 28, and a 46-year-old woman were also arrested in connection with the investigation.
The three suspects have been bailed pending further enquiries.
Kieran’s family raised the alarm after he failed to return to his home in Esplanade West, Sunderland.
Detectives began a huge search, carrying out door-to-door enquiries, scouring hours of CCTV footage and analysing tech data to try and find him.
His body was found on Thursday.
Detective Inspector Matt Steel, the officer leading the investigation into Kieran’s disappearance, said: “Our thoughts remain with Kieran’s loved ones during this unimaginable time.
“Over the past few weeks, we have been carrying out extensive enquiries into the disappearance and suspected murder of Kieran and I would like to thank everyone for their ongoing patience and cooperation.
“I also want to take this opportunity to thank the team of officers and staff who have been working tirelessly on this case, as well as everyone who has come forward with information to assist our enquiries.
“Now that charges have been brought against these two suspects, I would ask the public to please refrain from any speculation – both on social media and in the wider community – that could jeopardise the legal proceedings.”
Kieran’s mum Tracey Williams previously made a heartfelt appeal for her son’s safe return in a poignant post.
She wrote: “Son, please come home or at least let us know you are safe. We are worried sick and just want to know you are okay.
“Please, if anyone has seen our Kieran recently, I’d beg you to come forward and tell the police. I just want to know my boy is okay.”
