Homes in Poole, Dorset, were evacuated on Friday night after police found a suspected explosive device in a car parked on a residential street. Dorset Police said officers found the item in a vehicle on Sherwood Avenue at about 10.20pm on Friday, 30 October 2026, and an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team was called to make it safe.

A cordon was put in place and properties in the immediate vicinity were evacuated while specialists worked overnight. Officers had first attended a property on the road after reports that a nearby parked car contained offensive weapons and other suspicious items. Police have not said what the suspected device was, and no arrests have been made.

Linked address in Wimborne

Police also confirmed a presence in Park Homer Drive, Wimborne, which they said was connected to the Poole incident. Residents reported being woken in the early hours as officers knocked on doors, and the street was closed while the EOD operation continued.

Investigation continues

Dorset Police said enquiries are continuing. The force has not linked the incident to terrorism, and no wider threat has been stated. Anyone with information about the vehicle or the incident has been asked to contact police, and residents due to return to the cordoned area were advised to follow police directions on the night.