Man charged over death of David Haw in Poole Harbour

Extensive searches were carried out last year when 24-year-old David Haw fell into the water after a RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) collided with a channel marker.

Mr Haw, who was from Sussex, was reported missing at 1.59am on May 2, 2022, and searches were undertaken by police specialist dive teams supported by HM Coastguard, the RNLI and volunteers from DorSAR and Wessex Flood and Water Rescue Unit.

Just under two weeks later, on Saturday, May 14, a body was found in the water in Poole Harbour. Following formal identification, the body was confirmed to be that of David Haw.

David Haw

An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident was launched with police working alongside the Marine Accident Investigation Branch and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.

Following enquiries, a 21-year-old man from Southampton who was arrested has since been charged with gross negligence manslaughter.

He is due to appear at Poole Magistrates’ Court on Monday, June 19.

Detective Inspector Mark Jenkins, of the Major Crime Investigation Team, said: “We have liaised with the Crown Prosecution Service, which has authorised the charge in this case.

“The family of Mr Haw has been informed of this update and our thoughts remain with them during this difficult time.

“This matter is now subject to a court process and it would therefore be entirely inappropriate for Dorset Police to comment further at this time. It is important that the justice system is allowed to follow its course.

“I would like to remind the public that there should be no commentary or sharing of information online or on social media that could potentially prejudice these proceedings.”

Mr Haw’s mother, Gill Haw, previously launched an online fundraiser for the RNLI in recognition of their efforts trying to locate her son.

At the time, she said: “David was part of the sailing community, he spent many hours on the water. He tragically died at sea.”