A MURDER investigation has been launched after two women were stabbed, one fatally, on a Dorset 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.
Has anyone been arrested?
In a press release sent out just before 5am on Saturday morning, police said no arrests had been made at that time.
What do we know about the offender?
No details are known at this stage.
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.
This map shows the width of the cordon @Bournemouthecho pic.twitter.com/2u2APBzN0F
— Hannah Knight (@HKnightEcho) May 25, 2024
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.
Due to an ongoing police investigation, a Police cordon remains in place between the Bournemouth Oceanarium and the Western side of Alum Chine.
— BCP Council (@BCPCouncil) May 25, 2024
The beach, promenade, beach huts, Durley Chine car park, all businesses and access points within the cordon are currently closed. pic.twitter.com/MdMLkD8fha
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 can contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/do-it-online, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 24:707.
Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.
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