Tributes to father-of-two, 41, who died after 'attack outside cocktail bar': Murder probe sees five arrested

By LETTICE BROMOVSKY, NEWS REPORTER Published: 20:19, 7 April 2026 | Updated: 20:19, 7 April 2026 A father-of-two, who died after an 'attack outside a cocktail bar' has been described as 'the most incredible, lovable human' by his family. The incident, which took place outside MyBar in Bournemouth on Monday at around 3am, saw 41-year-old James Blanch killed in a brutal attack. He was tragically pronounced dead at the scene and his family has since released a statement saying he 'lit up any room with his massive smile'.  They said: 'Our lovely James was sadly taken away from us. He was the most incredible, lovable human that lit up any room with his massive smile. 'He was not just my husband but an incredible father to our two beautiful children who are heartbroken beyond belief.  'My James was an amazing husband, father son, brother, uncle and friend. He was the most loyal person who would do anything for anyone. 'James would just make everything better and always tell you that 'it's going to be alright'.  'Everything he did was for his two children who he loved more than anything in the world. I am forever grateful for our 18 years together and I will continue to make you proud with our two children. 'We are all utterly heartbroken and nothing will ever feel the same again. We love you James, daddy, today, tomorrow and forever. Leanne, Ronnie and Blossom.' The incident, which took place outside MyBar in Bournemouth on Monday at around 3am, saw 41-year-old James Blanch killed in a brutal attack Police were called to reports of an assault outside MyBar on Charminster Road at around 3am on Easter Monday Following initial enquiries, two men from Bournemouth – aged 37 and 46 – and a 34-year-old man from Poole were arrested on suspicion of murder. But they have all since been released under investigation. A fourth man – aged 35 and also from Bournemouth – was also arrested in Bristol on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody. And a fifth 39-year-old man from Bournemouth was also arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and also remains in police custody. Detective Chief Inspector Nicky Jenkins, of Dorset Police's Major Crime Investigation Team, said: 'We are continuing to carry out extensive enquiries into the circumstances of this incident and our thoughts remain with the family of the man who sadly died. 'I am continuing to ask anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity, captured any relevant footage or who has any information that might assist us, to please get in touch. 'This fast-paced investigation has resulted in a number of arrests and cordons were put place as we gathered evidence. These cordons have now been lifted and we continue to work to establish a full picture of what happened. 'An increased police presence will remain in the area over the coming days and we would encourage anyone with information or concerns to please speak with an officer.' Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.