Dorset Police give update on Bournemouth beach murder as appeal renewed
Investigations into the murder are ongoing with a man in police custody
Last updated 26th May 2024
Dorset Police have given an update on its investigation into the murder of a woman and the attempted murder of another woman on a beach in Bournemouth.
Officers from the force have been carrying out enquiries after the two women were stabbed on Durley Chine Beach on Friday night (May 24th).
The force said they received reports of a stabbing at 11:42p.m. on Friday night, with two women needing urgent medical attention.
When first responders arrived on the scene, a 34-year-old woman was sadly pronounced dead at the scene due to her injuries.
Similarly, a 38-year-old woman was taken to hospital with serious stab injuries. She currently remains in hospital and is receiving treatment for her wounds.
A 17-year-old boy from Lancashire, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was arrested and currently remains in police custody.
Speaking at a press conference, Detective Superintendent Richard Dixey from Dorset Police paid tribute to the deceased woman, saying that the forces' thoughts "remain with the family and friends of the victims who are being supported by specialist officers during this incredibly difficult time".
Dixey also appealed to the public to avoid online speculation into the case as it has become "unhelpful" for the force to carry out their enquiries effectively, which was made more important whilst an arrest has been made.
He added that the local population in Bournemouth should be not be made to feel scared and concerned for their safety, saying: "I want to reassure our communities in Dorset as well as the many people who choose to visit our county during the bank holiday weekend that we are exploring all available lines of enquiry to establish the motives for this horrendous incident."
To help reassure the local population, Dixey insisted that there would be a heightened police presence that those with concerns could approach.
Following this, he urged anyone who may have any information regarding the incident to get in touch as soon as possible with anything that may help officers in their investigations.
Specifically, anyone who was around the vicinity of Durley Chine Beach and the surrounding areas of the town between 10pm and midnight on Friday is being asked to reach out if they spotted anything unusual.
Those who may have any information can speak to Dorset Police by dialling 101 and quoting incident reference number 55240078013.