A serving Dorset Police officer who was under investigation for alleged gross misconduct has died after being struck by a train.
PC Alex Ayre, aged 24, died after the incident near Branksome on Friday morning.
British Transport Police said there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.
Dorset Police has paid tribute to the young officer, describing his death as a devastating loss for his family, friends and colleagues.
PC Ayre joined Dorset Police in June 2022 and was based in the Bournemouth area.
At the time of his death, he had been suspended from duty while an investigation into an allegation of gross misconduct was ongoing.
Dorset Police has referred the circumstances surrounding the suspension to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
The force has stressed that the investigation was at an early stage and that suspension does not mean an individual has been found guilty of misconduct.
'Alex, forever 24'
In a deeply personal tribute released by Dorset Police, PC Ayre's family described him as a much-loved member of their family and a close friend to many.
They said his death had left an irreplaceable gap in their lives.
The family remembered Alex as someone who made people feel welcome and included, and who was always willing to help others.
They also recalled his sense of humour and described him as someone who could make people laugh and bring warmth to those around him.
The tribute highlighted the many memories shared by Alex's family and friends, from childhood experiences and family occasions to nights out and stories from his working life.
His family said they would have given anything for more time with him.
They concluded their tribute with the words:
"Forever our son. Forever our grandson. Forever our brother. Forever our nephew. Forever our cousin. Forever our Alex."
The family also described the loss of a 24-year-old life as something they could never have imagined having to face so soon.
Police colleagues pay tribute
Dorset Police Chief Constable Rachel Farrell also expressed her condolences following PC Ayre's death.
She said the force's immediate priority was supporting Alex's family and the colleagues who worked alongside him.
The circumstances surrounding his death will be considered through the appropriate investigative and coronial processes.
The IOPC referral will also examine the relevant circumstances surrounding the police's handling of the matter.
The death has prompted an outpouring of sympathy from those who knew PC Ayre personally and professionally.
For his family, however, the focus remains on remembering a young man whose life ended at just 24.
Dorset Gazette will continue to report confirmed developments as they emerge.