Police have identified the 26-year-old man whose body was discovered near one of England’s best-known prehistoric landmarks as investigators continue to examine what they have described as an exceptionally violent killing.
The victim has been named as Isaac Clare-Watts, from Nottingham. His body was found on Monday afternoon near the Nine Ladies Stone Circle in Stanton Lees, Derbyshire, just one day after the site hosted annual summer solstice celebrations that attracted large numbers of visitors.
Authorities are now appealing for witnesses and anyone with photos or video footage from the event to help piece together what happened.
Body Found After Summer Solstice Gathering
According to Derbyshire Police, officers were called to the ancient stone circle shortly before 2 p.m. on Monday after reports that a man’s body had been discovered at the popular historic site.
Emergency responders attended the scene, where Isaac Clare-Watts was pronounced dead.
Following formal identification, police released a photograph of the 26-year-old with the permission of his family and expressed their condolences as the investigation continues.
Detectives believe the timing of the discovery—coming immediately after the weekend’s summer solstice celebrations—means many people may have information that could prove crucial.
Investigators are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who attended the event, as well as motorists who may have captured vehicles arriving or leaving the area on dashcam footage.
A dedicated Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) has also been launched to allow members of the public to upload information, photographs, and videos directly to detectives.
Arrest Made in Connection With the Investigation
Police confirmed that a 41-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder as part of the ongoing investigation.
Authorities have not released additional details regarding the circumstances of the arrest, and inquiries remain ongoing as detectives continue gathering evidence.
Friends Remember a Skilled Tradesman and Passionate Traveler
As news of Isaac Clare-Watts’ death spread, friends and former colleagues paid tribute to a man remembered for his craftsmanship, adventurous spirit, and positive personality.
Clare-Watts had previously worked as a joiner before deciding to travel overseas. According to reports, he had recently returned to the United Kingdom after spending time abroad, including an extended stay in Thailand where he pursued his passion for Muay Thai.
His former employer, Frank Goulding Ltd, described him as a valued member of the company who had grown into a highly skilled professional after joining the business in 2016.
The company recalled that he completed his apprenticeship successfully and became a respected joiner before choosing to take time away to explore the world and further develop his interest in martial arts.
Former colleagues also shared their sadness following the news, offering condolences and support to Isaac’s family during an incredibly difficult time.
Detectives Appeal for Witnesses
Leading the investigation, Detective Inspector Tony Owen of the East Midlands Special Operations Unit (EMSOU) said officers believe many people were present in the area throughout the summer solstice weekend and urged anyone who attended to come forward.
He stressed that even visitors who spent only a short time at the gathering could possess valuable information capable of helping investigators reconstruct the events leading up to Isaac’s death.
Detective Inspector Owen also encouraged anyone who recorded video footage during the celebrations to review their recordings and submit anything that might assist police.
Investigators hope that photographs, mobile phone videos, and vehicle dashcam recordings will help establish a clearer timeline and identify anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity.
Investigation Continues
As detectives continue their inquiries, Isaac Clare-Watts’ family and friends are mourning the loss of a young man whose life was cut tragically short.
Police remain focused on establishing exactly what happened near the Nine Ladies Stone Circle and are asking anyone with relevant information—no matter how insignificant it may seem—to contact investigators.
Authorities believe even the smallest detail could prove essential in helping bring answers to Isaac’s loved ones and ensuring those responsible are brought to justice.
