A murder investigation has been launched after the body of a man was discovered in a woodland with a gunshot wound. Ryan Kettlewell was found in Ecclesall Woods in Sheffield on Wednesday, September 2. A forensic post-mortem has revealed the 38-year-old died as a result of a gunshot wound, South Yorkshire Police said.
Arrests made following discovery
The force has since confirmed two people, a woman aged 34 and a man aged 36, were arrested on September 3 on suspicion of murder. They have since been released on police bail as enquiries continue.
In a statement, Sheffield police said: "Following the discovery of Ryan's body Wednesday 2 September at 6.46pm a murder investigation was launched and detectives and officers have been working at pace to understand the circumstances leading to his death. 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 3 September on suspicion of murder. They have since been released on police bail as our enquiries continue."
Family tribute and appeal for information
In tributes to Ryan, his heartbroken family described him as a loveable character and asked for privacy as they grieve. They said: "We will always continue to love him and will miss him greatly."
Detective Chief Inspector Andy Knowles, the senior investigating officer for the case, said: "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."
Anyone with information is being urged to call the force on 101 or get in touch via its website, quoting incident number 821 of 2 September 2026. Information can also be reported anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit their website.
