Bournemouth beach: A 17-year-old teenager has been arrested after a woman was stabbed to death and another was injured

25 May 2024 , 13:51

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Bournemouth beach: A 17-year-old teenager has been arrested after a woman was stabbed to death and another was injured

Police launched a murder investigation after two women were stabbed at a popular beach in Bournemouth on Friday night.

Officers were called to Durley Chine Beach in the Dorset seaside town at 11.42pm last night. The force confirmed a 34-year-old woman from Poole was pronounced dead at the scene while another woman, aged 38, suffered "very serious" injuries.

And at around lunchtime on Saturday afternoon, police confirmed a 17-year-old boy from Lancashire has been arrested after a woman died. “Following extensive fast-time inquiries, a 17-year-old boy from Lancashire has been arrested on suspicion of murder,” a police statement said.

Detective Superintendent Richard Dixey said: “We have worked tirelessly throughout the night since the initial report and have been able to progress our investigation. Foremost, our thoughts remain with the loved ones of the woman who very tragically lost her life. Officers are continuing with their inquiries and a cordon remains in place and is likely to remain so for some time.”

An earlier police statement read: "At 11.42pm on Friday 24 May 2024, Dorset Police received a report that two people had been stabbed on Durley Chine Beach. Very sadly, a 34-year-old woman from Poole was pronounced dead at the scene. Her next of kin have been informed and the coroner notified. 

"A 38-year-old woman from Poole was taken to hospital with very serious injuries and her next of kin are aware." Superintendent Gavin House, of Dorset Police, said: "Our thoughts are with the loved ones of the woman who very tragically lost her life. Officers are searching the area, but no arrests have been made at this time. A full and detailed investigation is underway. 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.

A murder investigation has been launched ( Image: Max Willcock/BNPS)

"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."

Elizabeth Baker