A peaceful evening at Durley Chine Beach in Bournemouth, Dorset, England was disrupted when a violent crime occurred on May 24, 2024. The incident resulted in the fatal stabbing of 34-year-old Amie Gray, a personal trainer, and left another 38-year-old woman seriously wounded.
The Dorset Police were alerted about the double stabbing incident around 11:45 p.m. Gray, who served as the head women’s coach at Dorset Futsal Club, a type of indoor soccer, was declared dead at the crime scene. The second victim, also a resident of Poole, was transported to the hospital where she continues to receive treatment for her injuries.
Dorset Police, in collaboration with the Metropolitan Police, have arrested a 20-year-old man from Croydon, London on charges of murder and attempted murder. Detective Superintendent Richard Dixey of Dorset Police’s major crime investigation team stated, “The investigation has progressed at speed over recent days, which has now led to an arrest being made in London. We are consistently informing the family and friends of the deceased woman, as well as the hospitalized victim, with the latest updates, and our thoughts are with them.”
Gray’s death has sent shockwaves through the local community, with friends and colleagues expressing their sorrow. One friend described her as “remarkable and without enemies.” Another friend, Michelle Shipley, said, “My daughter and I are still in shock. I spoke with her hours before and planned to see her on Sunday. I will forever treasure her voice notes and the pink blanky she gave to my daughter.”
Gray’s significant contribution to the local sports scene, particularly her coaching role at the Dorset Futsal Club, is being mourned. The club’s Facebook page read, “The club has been hit with deeply distressing news. We are at a loss for words, and out of respect for everyone affected, we will refrain from posting new content for the foreseeable future.” The club also changed its profile picture to a black square in her memory.
Vikki Slade, leader of Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole Council, stated, “A cordon is in place between Bournemouth Pier and the western side of Alum Chine and is likely to remain for some time.” A visible police presence has been heightened in the area to provide reassurance to residents and visitors.
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick expressed his condolences and assured the public of the police’s commitment to justice. “The death of the woman on Bournemouth beach is a tragedy, and my thoughts and condolences are with her family, friends, and loved ones,” he said. “I am confident that Dorset Police are tirelessly working to bring the responsible individual to justice.”
The incident has left community members shaken. Jo Taylor, a resident, said: “I was already nervous to come into Bournemouth due to being a woman on my own. This adds to my fear.” Another visitor, Ali Townsend, added, “It is just tragic that a young woman has died and another is fighting for her life. The heightened police presence reassures me, but an incident like this puts things into perspective.”
As the police continue their investigation, they are urging anyone with any information to step forward. An online portal has been set up to facilitate the submission of any details that might aid the investigation process. Detective Superintendent Dixey emphasized the importance of community cooperation in this case.
Friends and family of Amie Gray are continuing to remember her and share their grief. One friend’s Facebook post read, “Fly high Amie Gray, I’ll miss you so much. I am heartbroken! You were an amazing friend and someone I could always talk to. You were beautiful inside and out. Thank you for all the laughs and memories I will cherish forever.”
