Warlpiri Girl Missing and Found Dead
A Warlpiri girl, Kumanjayi Little Baby, went missing on Saturday, 25 April, from a town camp near Alice Springs and was found deceased five days later.
Warning: This article contains images of and references to Indigenous Australians who have died.
Police Charge Jefferson Lewis with Murder
Northern Territory police have charged Jefferson Lewis with murder in connection with the death of five-year-old Kumanjayi Little Baby.
The girl disappeared from her bed at the Old Timers or Ilyperenye town camp. Her mother last saw her at 11:30 pm on 25 April, tucked into bed. When checked again at 1:30 am, Kumanjayi was missing.
Hundreds of volunteers participated in an extensive search effort. After five days, her body was discovered.
On Sunday, NT police announced that Lewis, aged 47, had been charged with murdering Kumanjayi Little Baby. The name is used following her death at her family’s request, consistent with cultural protocols.
Lewis was remanded in custody and was scheduled to appear at Darwin Local Court on Tuesday.
Details of Lewis’s Arrest and Aftermath
Lewis was found unconscious when apprehended by officers on Thursday, after being "subject to a sustained attack," police reported on Friday.
He was taken to a hospital in Alice Springs, where tensions escalated as an angry crowd confronted police.
Police deployed tear gas after objects were thrown at officers, and police vehicles and bins were set on fire.
Due to "safety concerns," Lewis was transferred to Darwin.
Police Investigation and Community Impact
NT Police Commissioner Martin Dole stated that detectives have been working around the clock on what he described as an extensive and complex investigation.
"Our thoughts are firmly with [the] family, loved ones and the wider community that have been deeply impacted by these events,"
he said.
Commissioner Dole urged the public to respect the legal process, acknowledging the case’s profound effect on the community.
"It’s deeply distressing, not only for the family, but for the wider community,"
he said.
"This is a horrific event and a horrific set of circumstances."
Investigation into Looting and Violence
Police are also investigating incidents of looting and violence that occurred following Lewis’s arrest, including attacks on emergency services and significant damage to local businesses.
Authorities have released footage showing individuals breaking into shops and stealing goods.
"What you will see is criminal behaviour, plain and simple,"
Dole said.
"It’s abhorrent, it’s disgusting and it will not be tolerated or accepted by the Northern Territory police – and it should not be accepted by the community."
Two individuals have voluntarily surrendered, and several others have been arrested. Additional charges are anticipated as investigators review hundreds of hours of footage.
Officers are also seeking individuals believed to have assisted Lewis prior to his arrest.
Community Response and Measures
Community elders and Kumanjayi Little Baby’s family have called for calm and urged the public to allow the courts to address both the alleged murder and the subsequent unrest.
Authorities have imposed temporary takeaway alcohol restrictions to help prevent further violence. Police have indicated they will maintain a strong presence in Alice Springs and surrounding communities in the coming days.
Support Resources
Indigenous Australians can access information and crisis support by calling 13 92 76. Additional support is available via Lifeline at 13 11 14 or Mensline at 1300 789 978.
