Manhunt after beach stabbing leaves one dead and another injured: what we know so far

Police at Alum Chine <i>(Image: Newsquest)</i>
Police at Alum Chine (Image: Newsquest)

A MURDER investigation has been launched after two women were stabbed, one fatally, on a Bournemouth beach.

A huge cordon is in place on the seafront today as police investigate the incident.

We will be bringing you all the latest details as we get them but here’s what we know so far.

What happened?

Police received a report two people had been stabbed at Durley Chine beach at 11.42pm on Friday, May 24.

A 34-year-old woman from Poole was pronounced dead at the scene.

Her next of kin have been informed and the coroner notified.

Detectives have launched a murder investigation.

A 38-year-old woman from Poole was taken to hospital with very serious injuries.

Police said her next of kin are aware.

Bournemouth Echo:
Bournemouth Echo:

Has anyone been arrested?

A 17-year-old boy from Lancashire has been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Bournemouth Echo:
Bournemouth Echo:

What’s happening now?

Dorset Police have said a “full and detailed investigation” is underway.

Superintendent Gavin House, of Dorset Police, said: “I would ask anyone who saw what happened or has any information about the offender and has not yet spoken to officers to please contact us urgently.

“The beach has been cordoned off to enable officers to conduct a thorough investigation of the scene. I would like to thank the public for their patience and understanding while this vital work takes place.

“Members of the public will see an increased police presence in the area over the coming days and officers from the local neighbourhood policing team can be approached with any concerns.”

Is the beach still cordoned off?

A huge cordon is in place today between Bournemouth Pier and Alum Chine.

Officers on the scene told the Daily Echo the cordons will be in place, and businesses closed, for at ‘least the whole weekend’.

They also said access to these stretches of the beach are prohibited.

 

Officers have been turning both residents and visitors away who were unaware of the incident and have tried to access the beach.

What do I do if I have information that might help the investigation?

Anyone with information is asked to submit it to the investigation team via the Major Incident Public Portal page at https://mipp.police.uk/operation/55HQ23N07-PO1.

If you are unable to submit information online, please call 101 quoting occurrence number 55240078013. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.