Investigation launched into death of British man found in Sicily
Italian authorities are investigating the death of 35-year-old Benjamin John Braithwaite from Leeds, found near Noto in Sicily on Sunday. A rope was discovered nearby, and possible neck injuries remain under examination.
Italian police have confirmed they are investigating the death of a British man whose body was discovered in Sicily over the weekend. Benjamin John Braithwaite, 35, from Leeds, was found dead at around 03:00 BST on Sunday near the town of Noto, in the Province of Syracuse, according to a spokesperson for the Carabinieri, Italy's national police force.
Authorities said a rope was found near the body. Investigators are still examining whether there were any injuries or signs of violence, including possible trauma to the neck. They are also looking into whether drugs or other substances may have been involved.
A drawing described as having "esoteric connotations" was found on a wall at the perimeter of the property where the body was located. However, despite local media reports suggesting a possible link to esoteric rituals, investigators said no evidence connecting the scene to such practices was found near the body itself.
The case is being handled by Carabinieri officers based in Noto, working under the coordination of the public prosecutor's office at the court of Syracuse. A post-mortem examination is scheduled for 22 September, as inquiries continue to determine the exact circumstances and legal classification of the death.
A Carabinieri spokesperson said there are currently no suspects in the investigation.
Meanwhile, the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office confirmed it is supporting the man's family and remains in contact with local authorities in Italy.
