13-year-old arrested after tug boat gets stuck under Poole Lifting Bridge

The vessel and bridge were both damaged

The 'Rough Rider' tug boat came to rest under the Poole Lifting Bridge, causing damage to the bridge and the boat
Author: Katie CallaghanPublished 17th Feb 2021

A 13-year-old boy has been arrested after a tug boat was set loose and became stuck under the Poole Lifting Bridge.

It happened on Friday 29th of January 2021 - both the vessel and bridge were badly damaged.

The teenager - who is from Bournemouth - has been released on bail while officers investigate.

Dorset Police released this statement:

At 9.11pm on Friday 29 January 2021 it was reported that a tug boat, which had been set loose, was stuck under the Poole Lifting Bridge.

It is reported that ‘Rough Rider’ – a Poole Harbour Commissioner tug boat – was released from its moorings, causing the heavy vessel to float into the channel and collide with an RNLI launch before coming to rest under the lifting bridge.

The rising tide caused damage to the bridge. The boat sustained substantial damage, including to its radar equipment that will require costly repairs.

Following enquiries, a 13-year-old boy from Bournemouth has been arrested on suspicion of attempting to cause criminal damage to property.

He has been released on police bail pending further enquiries.