A body has been recovered from Poole Harbour after a man went missing from a sailing boat off the Dorset coast, police confirmed. The discovery was made on Tuesday morning, leading to the arrest of three men on suspicion of murder.
Body Found in Water
Dorset Police were called to reports of a man unresponsive in the water off Baiter Park at 6.11am on Tuesday. The individual was confirmed dead after being recovered, and police believe it is Michael Mitchell, 35, from Chelmsford, Essex. Formal identification has yet to take place, but his family has been informed.
Mr Mitchell was reported missing on Sunday after he went into the water from a vessel in Arne Bay on Friday evening. The investigation is being led by detectives from Dorset Police’s Major Crime Investigation Team (MCIT).
Arrests Made
Three men have been arrested on suspicion of murder: a 46-year-old from Poole, a 31-year-old of no fixed abode, and a 22-year-old from Essex. They remain in police custody. Dorset Police stated that the arrested men and Mr Mitchell are believed to be known to each other. The arrests were made to assist the investigation and provide legal protection to those involved as inquiries continue.
Detective Chief Inspector Nicky Jenkins, of MCIT, said: “We are carrying out a comprehensive investigation to establish the circumstances of the death. Michael Mitchell’s family are continuing to be updated with developments, and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.”
Appeal for Information
Police are compiling detailed evidence and urge the public to refrain from speculation. Anyone with information or recent contact with Mr Mitchell is asked to come forward. The investigation is examining the circumstances of Mr Mitchell going missing between around 8pm and 9pm on May 29 and the subsequent reporting of the matter two days later.
Anyone with information should contact Dorset Police online or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55260080161. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.
