Authorities in Sicily are investigating the death of a British man found in a remote off-grid community near Canicattini Bagni, close to Syracuse. Benjamin John Braithwaite, 35, from Leeds, was discovered naked next to his tent in the early hours of Sunday by friends staying at the rural site, which is home to a group of primarily foreign individuals described locally as hippies or flower children.

Italian police recovered drugs and other substances near Braithwaite’s body, as well as a length of rope and an image of a goat’s head inscribed on a stone perimeter wall around the property. While these elements have prompted some local speculation about occult or esoteric rituals, investigators have not yet found conclusive evidence linking the death to such practices. A police source emphasized that no ritualistic objects were found inside the abandoned farmhouse used by the community and that the investigation remains open to various possibilities.

Carabinieri reported observing wounds and signs of violence on Braithwaite’s body, including lesions on the neck, which are currently under examination. Authorities have not ruled out any causes of death, including homicide, suicide, or natural causes. A postmortem examination is scheduled for September 22 to help determine the precise circumstances.

The off-grid settlement where Braithwaite had been residing consists mainly of young adults from several countries, including Britain, Spain, and Austria. According to Paolo Amenta, mayor of Canicattini Bagni, the group includes university graduates who have chosen to live outside mainstream society, adopting a rustic, nomadic lifestyle in the countryside. The mayor described the community members as “good people” who have generally behaved in a kind and cordial manner, with no history of causing problems. He acknowledged that their unconventional lifestyle and dress style attract some local curiosity but expressed skepticism about allegations of occult activity.

The British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has confirmed its support for Braithwaite’s family and is in contact with Italian authorities. No suspects have been identified or detained in connection with the case.

This incident follows a separate event earlier this year in northern Italy, where a 25-year-old Italian man died under investigation following his participation in an ayahuasca ceremony at a deconsecrated abbey. That case similarly involved scrutiny of ritualistic practices and drug use but remains distinct from the current inquiry into Braithwaite's death. Authorities continue to gather evidence as they work to clarify the circumstances surrounding this case.