Man charged with murder of woman on Bournemouth beach

34-year-old Amie Gray died on Durley Chine Beach after being stabbed on Friday 24 May

Author: Cam Hall and Ben Mitchell, PAPublished 1st Jun 2024
Last updated 1st Jun 2024

A man's been charged with murder after a woman was stabbed to death on a beach in Bournemouth.

Dorset Police were first called to reports two women had been stabbed on Durley Chine beach at 11:42pm on Friday 24 May.

Amie Gray, 34, from Poole, died at the scene.

Leanne Miles, 38, from Poole, was treated in hospital after suffering serious injuries.

She has since been discharged.

Dorset Police say Nasen Saadi, 20, from Croydon, was arrested in connection with the investigation on Wednesday.

He has since been charged with the murder of Ms Gray and the attempted murder of Ms Miles.

Appearing before Poole Magistrates Court on Saturday, Saadi, wearing a grey jumper, spoke only to confirm his name and address.

He was remanded in custody, and his case was transferred to Winchester Crown Court.

A plea and trial preparation hearing has been scheduled for Tuesday.

Detective Superintendent Richard Dixey said:

"Our thoughts remain with the family and loved ones of Amie Gray, as well as the woman who was seriously injured, and they have been updated with this latest development in our investigation.

"This matter has been the subject of an extensive investigation and we have now consulted with the Crown Prosecution Service, which has authorised the charges of murder and attempted murder.

"This means the case will now be the subject of active court proceedings and it is vital that the justice system is allowed to follow its course.

"It is also important to stress that there should be no further commentary or sharing of information online or on social media that could potentially prejudice these court proceedings."

Enhanced patrols with continue in Bournemouth, as officers look to reassure residents of their safety.

Dorset Police's Assistant Chief Constable Steve Lyne said:

"Many police officers and staff have not only been involved in the investigation throughout the last week, but also have maintained a highly visible presence in the town to answer any questions local people have had and try to be as accessible as possible at a time of heightened concern.

"It has always been our intention to keep our communities as informed of developments as quickly and effectively as possible throughout the week both via local media and face to face when out on patrol.

"I appreciate the public want to and indeed should be given information to allay fears and concerns. That is balanced against maintaining the integrity of a highly complex investigation, which has moved at a pace throughout the week.

"Hopefully, Dorset Police has struck that balance to maintain public confidence as much as possible, accepting there is still significant work to be done with partners across the town to ensure public safety is maintained as a paramount concern."