DORSET Police have moved to reassure the public as a murder investigation continues after a woman was stabbed to death on a beach in Bournemouth.

A 17-year-old boy from the Lancashire area remains in custody after being arrested on suspicion of murder following the death of a 34-year-old woman from Poole.

The woman was pronounced dead at the scene after police received a report two people had been stabbed on Durley Chine beach at 11.42pm on Friday, May 24.

A 38-year-old woman from Poole was taken to hospital with serious injuries where she continues to receive treatment.

The force has sought to reassure communities it is investigating the full circumstances into the woman’s death “at pace”.

Detective Superintendent Richard Dixey, of the Major Crime Investigation Team, said: “Since we received the report of this tragic incident where a woman has lost her life and another woman has been seriously injured, our detectives – assisted by many colleagues around the organisation – have worked tirelessly to progress the investigation.

"Our thoughts remain with family and friends of the victims who are being supported by specialist officers during this incredibly difficult time.

“We recognise the impact this incident has on our communities and are aware of speculation already appearing online about the possible circumstances.

"It is important to state that our investigation is still in the very early stages and it is unhelpful to speculate as to why this tragedy has happened, especially as an arrest has been made. Further updates will be provided as the investigation develops."

Detective Superintendent Dixey continued: “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.

“We understand the concern that the public will have as a result of this incident. There will be an enhanced police presence in the area and we are also working closely with our partner agencies and community groups to address this. If you are in the area and have concerns, please do not hesitate to speak to an officer.

“I would like to use this opportunity to renew my appeal for anyone with information who has not yet spoken to officers to please contact us. We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who was in the vicinity of Durley Chine beach between 10pm on Friday 24 May 2024 and midnight and who saw anything unusual. Information can be uploaded through our dedicated Major Incident Public Portal for this case.”

Anyone with information is asked to submit it to the investigation team via the Major Incident Public Portal page at https://mipp.police.uk/operation/55HQ23N07-PO1.

If you are unable to submit information online, call 101 quoting occurrence number 55240078013. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.