Appeal for information following death of man in North Dorset
Officers continuing to investigate the circumstances of the death of a man in North Dorset are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.
The body of a man was located in the area of Newton Hill near Sturminster Newton at around 12.45pm on Saturday 24 May 2025.
It is believed to be that of 23-year-old local man Damian, who had been reported missing after last being seen in the area of Station Road at around 3am on Saturday 17 May 2025.
His family has been informed and is being kept updated with developments as enquiries continue into the circumstances of the death, which is currently being treated as unexplained.
As part of the investigation by detectives, as they seek to establish the fullest possible picture of events surrounding the death, a Blandford man aged in his 30s who was reported to be known to Damian has been arrested on suspicion of murder. He remains in police custody at this time.
Detective Inspector Mark Jenkins, of Dorset Police, said: “Our thoughts remain with Damian’s family at this very difficult time, and we are doing all we can to support them and keep them updated on our enquiries.
“We are carrying out a careful and considered investigation into the circumstances surrounding this death, the precise cause of which is unexplained, and I am appealing to anyone with information that might assist our enquiries to please make contact with us.
“In particular, I am keen to hear from anyone who has had contact with Damian at any time on Saturday 17 May 2025 to please get in touch if you have not already spoken to police.
“As part of our ongoing enquiries, a man has been arrested in connection with this incident. The arrest was made in order to assist us in gathering as much information as possible while also providing legal protection to the individual concerned.
“There will continue to be a policing presence in the Sturminster Newton area as we carry out enquiries and officers can be approached by members of the public with any information or concerns.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55250070085. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.
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