Detectives are appealing for witnesses or anyone with relevant dashcam footage to come forward as they investigate reports of a robbery and attempted robberies near Dorchester.

It was reported that at around 7.35pm on Friday 14 February 2025 a man driving a white Mercedes stopped to assist after coming across two men by a silver Ford Focus near to the Woodsford level crossing on Lewell Road near Crossways. It appeared their vehicle had either broken down or been involved in a collision.

It was reported that the two men then removed the male driver of the Mercedes from his car and attempted to drive off in the vehicle, before colliding with a barrier at a level crossing.

The two men then reportedly left the Mercedes, attempted to stop other passing vehicles and made threats to the occupants but then left the scene on foot.

Officers attended and carried out an extensive search of the area, but the men were not located.

The rail operator was notified in relation to damage to the level crossing.

Detective Constable Mia-Isabella Bowditch, of Dorset County CID, said: “We are continuing to carry out enquiries to identify the men involved in this incident and I would urge any witnesses who have not already spoken to police to please make contact with us.

“I would also urge any motorists who were travelling in the vicinity around the relevant time period to please review any dashcam footage to see if they have captured anything that might assist our investigation.

“There will be an increased policing presence in the vicinity as we carry out enquiries and officers can be approached by members of the public with any information or concerns.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55250022301. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.