Australian police charged Jefferson Lewis, 47, with murder after finding the body of a missing 5-year-old Indigenous girl in central Australia. [1, 2]
Police said the girl, whom her family calls Kumanjayi Little Baby for cultural reasons, was reported missing from her home in a remote community late on Saturday. Officers found a body believed to be hers shortly before midday on Thursday, about 5 km south of the original crime scene, after a major search. [1, 2]
Northern Territory Police Commissioner Martin Dole said the case was “a deeply distressing matter” and described the alleged killing as “disgusting” and “abhorrent.” He said the force’s thoughts were with Kumanjayi’s family, loved ones and the wider community. [1]
The death triggered unrest in Alice Springs, where five people were arrested over violent riots. Police said Lewis was moved to Darwin, about 1,500 km away, after the disturbances outside Alice Springs hospital on Thursday night. [1]
Family member Robin Granites said, “What has happened this week is not our way,” and added, “Our children are precious, of course we are feeling angry and hurt at what has happened.” He said, “This man has been caught, thanks to community action, and we must now let justice take its course while we take the time to mourn Kumanjayi Little Baby and support our family.” [1]
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said, “Our hearts are broken that the case of the little girl missing in Alice Springs has had such a tragic ending.” He added that no words could measure the family’s grief and said Australians held them in their hearts. [2]
Police announced the murder charge on Sunday morning after Lewis was charged on Saturday night. [1]
