Police issue CCTV images of suspect in fatal beach stabbing

Images of a suspect have been released by police as part of a murder investigation after a woman was stabbed to death on a Bournemouth beach and another was badly injured.

A 17-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of murder following the stabbing on the Blue Flag award-winning beach and remains in custody.

Dorset police were called to reports that two women from Poole had been stabbed on Durley Chine beach at about 11.45pm on Friday. A 34-year-old woman was pronounced dead at the scene, while a 38-year-old with serious injuries was taken to hospital, where she remained on Sunday evening.

Dorset police released CCTV images of a hooded suspect on Sunday evening. Officers believe only one offender was involved and the CCTV images are of the suspect at the scene. Inquiries are continuing to confirm his identity.

DS Richard Dixey said: “Since this tragic incident was reported to us, we have been driving the investigation forward, collecting as much information as possible to get answers for the loved ones of the young woman who has tragically lost her life and for the surviving victim. Our thoughts remain with them.

“We are now in a position to issue CCTV images of the suspect. I would urge anyone who was in the area of Durley Chine beach during the night from Friday 24 May to Saturday 25 May 2024 and may have seen the person pictured or anything unusual to please come forward.

“Similarly, anyone who was in the area of Durley Roundabout, West Cliff Gardens, Durley Gardens or West Cliff Drive during that night might have vital clues that could help us. Did you see anyone acting strangely, mainly between 10pm and midnight? Do you have dashcam or CCTV footage that may assist the inquiry?”