Woman arrested for ‘murder’ after crash kept in custody

The woman, in her 30s and from Hampshire, was arrested on suspicion of murder after a crash in north Dorset killed a boy aged nine. 

Emergency services were called to a crash on the A354 Salisbury Road at East Woodyates on Monday evening, March 25, involving a Citroen DS9, a Ford Transit and a DAF cattle transporter truck and trailer. 

The boy, who was a passenger in the Citroen and also from Hampshire, died at the scene. His family has been informed.  

Meanwhile the driver of the Citroen, the arrested woman, was taken into custody by police and arrested on suspicion of murder and a driving offence. 

Providing an update, a police spokeswoman said: “The arrested woman remains in police custody after detectives secured a warrant of further detention from Poole Magistrates’ Court.  

“The investigation is continuing and there are no further updates at this time.” 

A murder investigation was launched and officers are wishing to speak to witnesses who may have seen the “manner of driving” of any of the vehicles in the area prior to the crash.  

Detective chief inspector Neil Third, of the major crime investigation team, said: “First and foremost, our thoughts are with the loved ones of the young boy during this very difficult time.  

“A number of initial lines of enquiry have been carried out and detectives are now undertaking an investigation to establish the full circumstances of what happened.  

“I would ask any witnesses who have not already spoken to police, or anyone who may have captured relevant dashcam footage, to please come forward.  

“Also, I am keen to speak to anyone who may have seen the manner of driving of any of the vehicles involved prior to the incident.  

“A detailed scene examination was carried out overnight and I would like to thank the public for their patience and understanding during the road closure.”  

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55240044571.   

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.