Southampton man charged with manslaughter following death in Poole Harbour
The body of David Haw, from East Sussex, was found in the water almost two weeks after the RIB he was on collided with a channel marker
Last updated 22nd May 2023
A man from Southampton has been charged with gross negligence manslaughter in connection with the death of a man in Pool.
David Haw, from Forest Row, East Sussex, was reported missing in Poole Harbour during the early hours of Monday, May 2, last year after the RIB he was on collided with a channel marker.
Extensive searches, involving police specialist dive teams and the Coastguard, were carried out, but the 24-year-old’s body was found in the water almost two weeks later.
Dorset Police said following ‘detailed enquiries’, a 21-year-old man from Southampton has been charged and is due before Poole Magistrates’ Court in June.
Detective Inspector Mark Jenkins, of the Major Crime Investigation Team, said: “We have liaised with the Crown Prosecution Service, which has authorised the charge in this case.
“The family of Mr Haw has been informed of this update and our thoughts remain with them during this difficult time.
“This matter is now subject to a court process and it would therefore be entirely inappropriate for Dorset Police to comment further at this time. It is important that the justice system is allowed to follow its course.
“I would like to remind the public that there should be no commentary or sharing of information online or on social media that could potentially prejudice these proceedings.”