Searchers have discovered the body of five-year-old Sharon Granites, believed to be the missing girl abducted from a home south of Alice Springs. The tragic find occurred 5 kilometers south of the Old Timers town camp crime scene, just before midday ACST on Thursday.

Police Declare Worst Possible Outcome

Northern Territory Police Commissioner Martin Dole described the discovery as the worst possible outcome. Sharon vanished around 11 p.m. on Anzac Day after Jefferson Lewis, 47, was seen leading her away from the residence. Authorities now allege that Lewis, who is distantly related to the child, murdered her.

Urgent Hunt for Suspect Intensifies

NT Police Assistant Commissioner Peter Malley emphasized the priority of locating Lewis. “The focus right now is to locate Jefferson Lewis,” Malley stated on Thursday afternoon. He issued a direct message to Lewis’s family: “We believe he’s murdered this child. Do not assist him. Get him to the police station and we’ll look after him.”

Malley added a stark warning to the suspect: “And I say to Jefferson Lewis, we’re coming for you.”

Investigation Details and Next Steps

Commissioner Dole noted that police cannot yet disclose the cause of Sharon’s death or the duration she had been deceased. “A post-mortem examination will now be conducted, most likely tomorrow, and that will be a critical step in establishing those facts,” he said.

The criminal investigation continues, with a coronial process underway, limiting further public details. Dole highlighted the devastation: “This is devastating news, not only for Sharon’s family, but also the first responders, the Alice Springs community, and all of those around Australia who have been worrying for Sharon.”

He acknowledged the overwhelming community support during the search.