Police probe after body found at Nine Ladies Stone Circle

Police in Derbyshire have launched a murder investigation after a 26-year-old man was found dead at the historic Nine Ladies Stone Circle in the Peak District. The body was discovered at the site in Stanton Lees at approximately 1:38 p.m. on Monday, June 22, and emergency services pronounced the man dead at the scene.

The man has not been formally identified, but his family has been informed and is receiving support from specialist officers. Detective Inspector Tony Owen of the East Midlands Special Operations Unit, who is leading the investigation, described the death as a young man's life being taken in the most brutal way. He appealed for witnesses who were in the area over the weekend, which included celebrations for the summer solstice on Sunday, to come forward.

Officers believe the site saw significant foot traffic from Friday through Tuesday due to the solstice observance. Detective Inspector Owen acknowledged the incident would be shocking and distressing to those who were present and the wider community. He urged anyone who attended the event or visited the area over the weekend to speak with police, emphasizing it is vital to build a clear picture of the exact...