A MURDER investigation has been launched after a man was found stabbed at a flat in Poole.

Police were called to Wessex Road in the Ashley Cross area around 1.35pm on Sunday following reports of a disturbance.

On arrival officers found a man in his 20s had sustained a serious stab injury and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

His next of kin have yet to be informed. The coroner has been informed.

The circumstances of the man’s death are suspicious and a murder investigation, led by Dorset Police’s Major Crime Investigation Team (MCIT), is underway.

A 49-year-old man of no fixed abode has been arrested on suspicion of murder and is currently assisting officers with enquiries.

Detective Chief Inspector Neil Devoto, of the MCIT, said: “Following the discovery of a man’s body, Dorset Police has launched a murder investigation.

“Enquiries are now underway to establish exactly what happened earlier today.

“I am appealing for anyone who may have seen or heard anything suspicious in the Wessex Road area today to contact Dorset Police as soon as possible.

“Officers from the local Neighbourhood Policing Team will be carrying out high visibility patrols in the area to officer reassurance to the community and can be contacted with any concerns.”

A cordon has been put in place at the flat while crime scene investigators examine the scene. Officers are also carrying out house-to-house enquiries.

Residents reported seeing between 10 and 14 police cars in the road.

Resident, Paul Read, said around 14 police cars and at least three ambulances were at the scene.

He added: "Everything kicked off around 45 minutes ago [approx. 2.15pm]. Very strangely there were no sirens, just a lot of police cars which turned up.

"Everything is sealed off around a particular house and part of the road and car park."

One resident, who asked not to be named, said: "I've heard that something terrible has happened.

"It's a shock because I live just down the road and I didn't hear anything. I went outside and there were eight police cars parked in the street."

He said the incident is "worrying", adding: "It's a quiet road.

"We never have any trouble."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police quoting incident number 14:195. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.