"No wider threat to community": Update over body found in Ecclesall Woods as murder probe continues
“There is not believed to be any wider threat to the community as a result of or in relation to this incident”
Police have said there is not believed to be any wider threat to the community as an investigation into the murder of a 38-year-old man nears its second week.
Officers were called out to Ecclesall Woods on Whirlowdale Road shortly before 7pm on Wednesday, September 2, 2026.
It followed the discovery of the body of “beloved” Ryan Kettlewell, who was subsequently found to have suffered a fatal gunshot wound.
South Yorkshire Police (SYP) launched a murder investigation following the discovery.
Now, the force has responded to questions over whether they believe Ecclesall Woods should still be regarded as safe.
A SYP spokesperson said today: “There is not believed to be any wider threat to the community as a result of or in relation to this incident.”
It comes as residents have reported seeing fewer people frequenting the woods in the wake of Ryan’s body being found there.
The day after Ryan’s body was discovered, two people, a woman aged 34 and man aged 36, were arrested on suspicion of murder.
They were subsequently released on bail, as the investigation continues.
Speaking on September 5, 2026, Detective Chief Inspector Andy Knowles, senior investigating officer for this case, added: "We are committed to finding answers of how Ryan lost his life.
“I continue to urge anyone with information about his death to get in touch, no matter how irrelevant or insignificant you believe it to be, it could be the missing piece we need.
“Our thoughts are with all those who knew and loved Ryan.”
To report information to South Yorkshire Police, please call them on 101 or get in touch via their website.
Please quote incident number 821 of September 2, 2026 when you get in touch.
If you wish to report information to police anonymously, you can do so via the independent charity Crimestoppers.
Call them on the freephone number 0800 555 111 or visit their website.
No details are collected during their reporting service, and no one will know you have contacted them.