British National Found Dead in Sicily After Attending LGBTQ 'Pagan Gathering'

Italian authorities are investigating the death of Benjamin Braithwaite, a 35-year-old British national whose naked body was found in Sicily on September 13. Braithwaite had been attending an LGBTQ 'pagan gathering' in the rural area of Piano Milo.

Investigators are reportedly keeping an open mind regarding the cause of death, with theories ranging from foul play and a sex game gone wrong to suicide. Initial medical examinations found marks around Braithwaite's neck, and a length of rope was discovered nearby, prompting an investigation into asphyxiation. Italian police are also examining whether drugs or other substances were involved, having found a substance at the scene. The possibility of suicide is being considered by some members of the group, with one message in an encrypted chat room reportedly stating that Braithwaite took their own life, citing a history of depression.

Braithwaite, who identified as non-binary and used they/them pronouns, reportedly went by several names, including River and Wasp. They had arrived in Sicily several days before their death and had become involved with a group living an alternative lifestyle in abandoned farm buildings and makeshift camps.

According to reports, Braithwaite was found near a farmhouse where members of the community had been staying. The gathering was organized by a New Age group, and a former member described it as a 'very paganistic' group where some participants engaged in 'druidy' rituals, drug-taking, and what they termed 'dangerous sex games.' This former member claimed the group could be a 'front for drugs and sexual and spiritual grooming,' and expressed that they were not surprised by the news of a death, stating, 'I always knew that one day something like this would happen.' The group members refer to themselves as Radical Faeries.

There is no indication that the organizers of the event were aware of or condone any such activities. The website for Faerie Sex Magick describes workshops focused on emotional intimacy, communication, and affirmative consent, with an emphasis on erotic touch and sexual healing. The site states these activities are alcohol and substance-free, and that organizers 'tolerate no violent words or deeds.' It also mandates explicit consent and states that no one is coerced.

Local reports at the time of the discovery mentioned imagery found near the scene, including a goat's head, bottles of psychotropic drugs, and other objects suggesting rituals. However, authorities have emphasized that there is no evidence directly linking Braithwaite's death to an esoteric or occult ritual. Inside a tent at the rural site, investigators found a bondage-style leather harness and gas masks. A nearby cave contained a collection of women's fancy dress clothing.

Italian police have not commented on whether Braithwaite was murdered or died from an overdose, but local reports suggest investigators do not believe the death was a suicide by hanging. A post-mortem examination has been conducted, but a definitive cause of death has not yet been determined, with toxicology and other examinations pending.

Local officials noted that individuals living in the area have chosen an isolated lifestyle, with some being graduates who opted to leave conventional society. The British Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) confirmed it is supporting Braithwaite's family and is in contact with Italian authorities.