Detectives have arrested a British woman after a man was found dead in a Tenerife hotel.
Russell Watts, 63, from South Yorkshire, was discovered dead in his room at the Hotel Catalonia Punta Del Rey in the Candelaria area of the Spanish island last month.
A murder investigation was launched, and on Wednesday, South Yorkshire Police said they had arrested a 56-year-old woman from the Rotherham area on suspicion of murder. She was being held in police custody.
Watts, known for his dreadlocks, was a popular figure in the Thrybergh area on the outskirts of Rotherham.
Friends and relatives have paid fond tributes to Watts, describing him as intelligent, “a top bloke” and “an absolute legend”.
Cassie Watts wrote on social media: “Oh my heart – you’ve left a void no one can ever fill .. I love you all the way to heaven and back.”
Thrybergh Top Club, a working men’s club, wrote: “Russ was a character to say the least, and he brought energy to the club whenever he came in.
“Russ was loved by all and will be greatly missed by all that knew him.”
Clair Crosby wrote: “Russ, is, n always will be, a man too intelligent, in his head!… I’d actually go as far to say genius.”
Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Ben Wood said: “This is a complex case and our thoughts first and foremost remain with Russell’s family, friends and loved ones.
“Our investigation into Russell’s death is still at an early stage, and we are carrying out a number of extensive enquiries to piece together the events which led to Russell’s death.”
Ch Insp Wood said police are keen to hear from anyone staying in the hotel around the time, appealing for anyone who saw something suspicious or has information that could help the investigation to report it.
“Even the smallest piece of information could prove crucial, and I would implore anyone who may know something to get in contact with us immediately,” he said.
