Devastated friends and loved ones pay tribute to beloved Sheffield man, Ryan, after body found in woods
'You'll always be loved, remembered and missed'
Devastated friends and relatives have paid moving tributes to a beloved Sheffield man whose death has sparked a murder investigation.
Ryan Kettlewell was found dead on Wednesday, his body found in Ecclesall Woods, sparking a major police response.
Since his death was announced by South Yorkshire Police, those who knew and loved him have left moving messages on social media.
Two of his aunts have spoken of how loved the 38-year-old was.
One, Carol Kettlewell, said: “RIP my lovely nephew Ryan. You will always be loved, remembered and missed by me, Kevin and all your family.”
Another, Louise Damms added: “It is with such a heavy heart that I'm writing this. Our nephew Ryan has been taken away from us so tragically. He was very much loved by all his family and we will miss his cheeky sense of humour. I love you always, till we meet again.”
Friends have also shared their memories of Ryan on social media.
Tommy Joseph Martin said: “Never a sad or dull moment with you mate. Everytime I saw you in school and out, all I did was belly laugh with you, even if I was having a crappy day, you would always crack me up. Every time I saw your face I always knew you was gonna have my face and side hurting from laughing.
“Truly gutted that I'm never gonna have one of them moments again with you. The only problem with you mate is that there isn't enough people like you in this world. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Johnny Hunt added: “I’ve never met a guy like Ryan. In the darkest of times he was my light and I’ll never forget that.”
Catherine Rebecca added: “RIP Rye, always in mine and our kids heart.”
Police say a forensic post-mortem has revealed that Ryan died as a result of a gunshot wound.
Two people, a woman aged 34 and man aged 36 were arrested on September 3 on suspicion of murder. They have since been released on police bail as enquiries continue.
Police, who cordoned off the entrance to Ecclesall Woods on Whirlowdale Road during their investigation, are appealing for information, Yesterday, they appealed to motorists for dashcam footage.
They are keen to hear from anyone who may have filmed anyone entering the woods, or activity taking place as they have driven past, and are urging drivers to check their dashcam footage and get in touch, adding that the smallest piece of information could be pivotal to their inquiry.
To report information, call police on 101 or get in touch via the police website. Quote incident number 821 of September 2, 2026 when you get in touch.
You can also call anonymously, via the independent charity Crimestoppers. Call them on the freephone number 0800 555 111 or visit their website.