Dorset Police news site

Fast time enquiries by detectives have led to a man being charged in connection with a reported serious assault in Bournemouth.

Dorset Police received a report at 10.31pm on Tuesday 7 July 2026 that a man had sustained a suspected stab wound after being assaulted in the area of Pier Approach in Bournemouth.

Officers patrolling the seafront attended promptly and following searches in the area, arrested a 20-year-old man and an 18-year-old man on suspicion of inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent.

The victim, a man aged in his 20s, was taken to hospital with injuries not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing.

A police cordon was put in place at the scene to allow for enquiries to be carried out.

An investigation was launched and following fast time enquiries, the 18-year-old man, of Bournemouth, has been charged with inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent. He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Thursday 9 July 2026.

The 20-year-old man, of no fixed address, has been released on police bail as enquiries into the incident continue.

Inspector Jonathan Sainsbury, of Bournemouth CID, said: “Officers patrolling the seafront on the evening of Tuesday 7 July 2026 were able to respond quickly to the incident and carry out searches to locate and arrest two men. 

“Following fast time enquiries by detectives from Bournemouth CID, a man has now been charged with inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent.

“Our enquiries are ongoing into the incident, which will now be the subject of active court proceedings and we would urge members of the public to refrain from any commentary, particularly online and on social media, that could potentially prejudice these proceedings.

“We understand the concern this incident may have caused for the community. Our officers will be continuing proactive patrols in the area and can be approached by members of the public with concerns.”

Detectives are urging anyone with information that might assist their investigation to contact Dorset Police online or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55260102053. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online using its website or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.