A tranquil Friday evening turned tragic at Durley Chine Beach in Bournemouth, Dorset, England on May 24, 2024. A personal trainer, Amie Gray, 34, lost her life to a stabbing incident that occurred just before midnight. A second woman, 38, was severely injured during the attack.
Reports of a double stabbing reached the Dorset Police around 11:45 p.m. Gray, who served as the head women’s coach for the Dorset Futsal Club, was declared dead on the scene. The other victim, also a resident of Poole, was quickly transported to a medical facility where she is still undergoing treatment. Futsal is a variant of soccer that is played indoors on a smaller field.
A 20-year-old male from Croydon, London has been apprehended and faces charges of murder and attempted murder. The arrest was the result of a joint operation between the Dorset Police and the Metropolitan Police. According to Detective Superintendent Richard Dixey from Dorset Police’s major crime investigation team, “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.”
The loss of Amie Gray has left her community in despair. Friends and colleagues have been vocal about their grief and have been sharing fond memories of her. As one friend told local media, “She was remarkable and had no 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 contributions to local sports were significant. The Dorset Futsal Club, where she coached, posted on Facebook, “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.” In mourning, the club also changed its profile picture to a black square.
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.” To reassure residents and visitors, additional officers are patrolling the area.
David Sidwick, Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, expressed his condolences and assured the public that efforts to bring the perpetrator to justice are ongoing. “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 many in the community feeling uneasy. Jo Taylor, a local, shared her concerns: “I was already nervous to come into Bournemouth due to being a woman on my own. This adds to my fear.” Another holidaymaker, Ali Townsend, reflected, “It is just tragic that a young woman has died and another is fighting for her life.” He added, “The heightened police presence reassures me, but an incident like this puts things into perspective.”
As the investigation moves forward, police are urging anyone with information to step forward. An online portal has been set up for the submission of any details that could assist the investigation. Detective Superintendent Dixey stressed the importance of community cooperation.
Friends and family of Amie Gray continue to keep her memory alive by sharing their grief and reminiscing about her. One friend posted on Facebook, “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.”
