Alice Springs Murder Charge and Town Unrest

A 47-year-old man has been charged with murder after a 5-year-old girl was found dead near Alice Springs. This has led to protests and clashes.
By Newsroom | Crime, Australia |

JEFFERSON LEWIS, 47, faces a murder charge in relation to the death of KUMANJAYI LITTLE BABY, a five-year-old girl, near Alice Springs. Police announced the charge on Sunday, days after Lewis's arrest and the discovery of the child's body. Lewis was reportedly unconscious at the time of his arrest on Thursday night, having handed himself in to a town camp. He was then transported to a Darwin hospital under police supervision.

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The girl was reported missing from her bed at the Old Timers or Ilyperenye town camp late on Saturday, April 25. Her mother last saw her around 11:30 PM that night. A search ensued, culminating in the discovery of her body about 5 kilometers from where she was last seen, shortly before midday on Thursday.

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Community Fallout and Police Response

Lewis's arrest on Thursday evening ignited significant unrest. Crowds gathered outside a hospital in Alice Springs, demanding the accused be handed over. These gatherings devolved into violent clashes with police, with reports of police vehicles being damaged and set alight, and officers facing projectiles such as rocks and sticks. Tear gas was deployed by police.

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Background of Accused and Victim's Family

Jefferson Lewis has a history of violence, including previous charges for assault and domestic violence. He had been released from prison only six days prior to Kumanjayi Little Baby's disappearance. This fact has drawn comment from Senator Lidia Thorpe, who raised questions about the timing of his release.

The family of Kumanjayi Little Baby, who had been living in their home for seven years, have found it too emotionally difficult to remain there and have made a significant move. The family has called for calm and for justice to take its course. The name "Kumanjayi Little Baby" was reportedly given to the child by her family after her death, in accordance with cultural traditions. Northern Territory Police Commissioner Martin Dole acknowledged the distressing nature of the event, expressing condolences to the family.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who has been charged with murder in Alice Springs?
Jefferson Lewis, 47, has been charged with murder in relation to the death of Kumanjayi Little Baby, a five-year-old girl, near Alice Springs. Police announced the charge on Sunday.
Q: When was the child reported missing and found?
The girl was reported missing late Saturday, April 25, and her body was found about 5 kilometers from where she was last seen, shortly before midday on Thursday.
Q: What happened after the accused was arrested?
Lewis's arrest on Thursday evening led to significant unrest, with crowds gathering outside a hospital and clashing violently with police. Police vehicles were damaged, and tear gas was used.
Q: Is there any background information on the accused?
Jefferson Lewis has a history of violence, including previous charges for assault and domestic violence. He had been released from prison only six days before the child's disappearance.
Q: What has the family of the child said?
The family has called for calm and for justice to take its course. They have found it too difficult to remain in their home and have moved.
Q: What was the police response to the community unrest?
Police deployed tear gas and faced projectiles during clashes with crowds. Northern Territory Police Commissioner Martin Dole expressed condolences to the family.