Dorset Police news site

Officers investigating an incident in Bournemouth reported to have involved a possible firearm have made an arrest.

Dorset Police received a report at 11.54am on Tuesday 22 April 2025 of an altercation involving two men in St Swithun’s Road in Bournemouth, near to the junction with Frances Road. 

It was reported that one of the men was in possession of a possible firearm and subsequently had left the scene. There were no reports of any injuries and there was no evidence to suggest a viable firearm was involved - it is believed the weapon was a BB gun or similar. 

Following quick-time enquiries, officers have arrested a 15-year-old boy from Bournemouth on suspicion of possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, possession of an imitation firearm in a public place and threatening a person with an offensive weapon in a public place.

Enquiries into the incident are ongoing.

Detective Superintendent Steve May, of Dorset Police, said: “Officers have been carrying out extensive searches and quick-time enquiries as part of our investigation and have now made an arrest in connection with the incident.

“Enquiries are ongoing and I am continuing to ask anyone who has not already spoken to police and has information that may assist my investigation, or any relevant CCTV or dashcam footage, to please come forward.

“While we understand the public’s concern around this incident, we would like to reiterate to our residents that we are confident no viable firearm was involved, and remind them that our officers can be approached with any questions or concerns.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55250056483. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.