What to Know
The summer solstice is the longest day of the year. In 2026, it occurred on June 21, and thousands flocked to celebrations in the United Kingdom, including 26-year-old Isaac Clare-Watts. On June 22, police discovered his body at Nine Ladies stone circle in Stanton Lees in the Peak District of Derbyshire.
Police immediately launched an investigation looking for the person responsible for Clare-Watts’ death. They arrested a 41-year-old suspect, but many questions remain as police implore potential witnesses for help.
Clare-Watts reportedly died a horrific death.
According to an online release from the Derbyshire Constabulary, they discovered Clare-Watts’ body just before 2 p.m. Police released very little information about the man’s death or the circumstances leading up to it.
However, they quickly asked for the public’s help. East Midlands Special Operations Unit Detective Tony Owen wants anyone who attended the event from June 19 to June 23 to reach out with any information that could help understand what happened to Clare-Watts.
“A young man’s life has been taken in the most brutal way, so it is vital that myself and the team build up a clear picture of the exact circumstances surrounding his death,” he said.
Even if the information seems insignificant, Owen wants to review all potential evidence.
“You may have only been there briefly and think you can’t help, but you could hold the key piece of information we need to understand what has happened and help us to get justice for this young man’s family,” he added.
Clare-Watt’s family wants answers.
The victim’s sister, Jonimae Clare, told Metro she wants justice for her brother, and they will stop at nothing to find the person responsible for his death. In a statement obtained by the outlet, Clare broke the horrific news to those who loved her brother.
“It breaks our hearts to let you all know that Isaac, son and brother, was found dead on Monday morning,” she shared. “We all know he was ‘Isaac the Wonder Boy’ and that this will upset many. Contact is welcome, but please understand we have no words or answers.”
Clare-Watt’s employer, Frank Goulding Ltd, shared love for him and his family.
“Isaac joined us as a young man in 2016 to pursue a career in construction. He successfully completed his joinery apprenticeship and developed into a very skilled joiner,” the company shared in a statement obtained by Metro.
“Isaac was a very popular member of our team and decided last year he wanted to take some time and go and see the world, in particular spending some time in Thailand to develop his Muay Thai skills, which was a passion of his. We are all very saddened to hear the tragic news, and our prayers and sympathy go to his family.”
Police arrested a suspect.
In a June 25 news release, police confirmed the arrest of a 41-year-old suspect in connection with Clare-Watt’s death. Owen thanked those who provided tips and asked for help once again.
“My priority, and that of the team, remains on finding out exactly what has happened to Isaac, and ensuring those responsible are brought to justice,” he shared. “While we have arrested one man in connection with this incident, the investigation is still very much ongoing, and we are keeping an open mind so information from the public remains key.”
