Polish national Szymon Babynko, 23, has been charged with the murder of Isaac Clare-Watts, 26, who was found dead near the Nine Ladies Stone Circle in Stanton Lees, Derbyshire, on June 22. The incident occurred during a summer solstice celebration.
Babynko also faces a charge of attempted murder in connection with an incident in Chesterfield on June 25. He appeared in court on June 29 to face the murder charge. The cause of Mr. Clare-Watts's death remains undisclosed as post-mortem examination results have not yet been provided to the coroner.
Police described the killing as occurring 'in the most brutal way' and have appealed for witnesses. Mr. Clare-Watts was believed to have been attending the solstice event with hundreds of others, where music and dancing took place. His mother, Christy, identified his body at Leicester Royal Infirmary on June 24 and shared an emotional tribute on social media.
Mr. Clare-Watts, a joiner from Carrington, Nottingham, worked for Frank Goulding Ltd, where he was described as a skilled and popular employee. Colleagues noted his ambition to travel and pursue his passion for Muay Thai in Thailand. He was also known for his love of music and drumming under the social media name 'Bangs Drum'.
A 41-year-old man was initially arrested on suspicion of murder but was later bailed. The coroner for Derby and Derbyshire, Susan Evans, opened an inquest into Mr. Clare-Watts's death at Chesterfield Coroner's Court. The inquest has been suspended until the conclusion of criminal proceedings.
Babynko is scheduled to appear at Derby Crown Court on September 25, with a trial anticipated in November or next March. Authorities are urging anyone who attended the event between June 19 and June 23, or who has relevant photographs or video footage, to come forward.
Local residents have noted that recent gatherings at the Nine Ladies Stone Circle, traditionally a site for peaceful solstice celebrations, have increasingly featured large-scale parties and raves with loud music and drug use, contrasting with the event's historical significance.