Bournemouth murder probe after man dies in fight

A large area of Bournemouth's Lower Gardens has been cordoned off following the teenager's death

Four men have been arrested on suspicion of murder after a man died in a suspected stabbing during a fight in Bournemouth.

The 18-year-old victim, who was from the town, was pronounced dead in Lower Gardens shortly before 01:30 BST.

The suspects are all 18 years old, two are from Portsmouth, one is from Bournemouth and the other is from Poole, Dorset Police said.

Bournemouth Square and a large part of the gardens have been cordoned off.

Forensics officers have been seen investigating in Bournemouth Square and the Lower Gardens

Police said there would be increased patrols in the area, which is close to Bournemouth Beach and popular with tourists, over the next few days.

The force said a number of people were reported to have left the scene and discarded various items, including clothing, after the attack.

Det Inp Neil Third said: "Our thoughts are first and foremost with the family of the young man who sadly died in this incident.

"We have dedicated officers supporting the family and keeping them updated with the progress of our investigation at what must be a truly dreadful time for them.

"Our detailed investigation into the full circumstances of this incident remains ongoing and I would again urge any witnesses who have not already spoken to police to please come forward."

Lower Gardens is entirely cordoned off, from Bournemouth Square through to the entrance to Pier Approach

The area is usually busy with shoppers and people heading to the seaside but the cordon has resulted in retailers and restaurants shutting.

Bournemouth Square is used as a hub for buses, but all journeys are now being diverted and services are instead starting and terminating at nearby Westover Road.

Det Insp Third added: "I would like to again thank members of the public, and particularly businesses impacted, for their patience and understanding.

"It is vital that we make every possible effort to ensure any available evidence is captured, so these cordons are absolutely vital to our investigation."