Body of Abducted 5-Year-Old Found in Alice Springs: Police Hunt Suspect

Northern Territory police have located the body of a five-year-old Aboriginal girl who had been missing for five days after an alleged abduction from Alice Springs.

The body of Sharon Granites, whom her family referred to as Kumanjayi Little Baby, was found just before midday on April 30, 2026. Police reported that the discovery was made approximately 5 kilometers south of a crime scene in Alice Springs.

Details of the Disappearance

Sharon Granites was reported missing from her home on Marshall Court in the Old Timers/Ilyperenye Aboriginal town camp, located on the outskirts of Alice Springs, at approximately 1:35 am on April 26, 2026.

Police investigations indicate that the girl was seen with a man at approximately 11 pm on April 25, 2026. Authorities allege she was led away by 47-year-old Jefferson Lewis, a recently released prisoner, who was observed holding her hand.

Northern Territory Police Commissioner Martin Dole described the recovery of the girl’s body as an incredibly distressing development and acknowledged that it was a devastating time for the family.

Search for Suspect

Police are continuing their search for Jefferson Lewis, who they allege abducted and killed the child. Authorities have urged Lewis to hand himself in as the investigation proceeds.

A post-mortem examination of the child’s body is expected to be conducted on May 1, 2026.

Family Statement

Leanne Liddle, the Northern Territory Police executive director of cultural reform, read a letter from the girl’s mother on behalf of the family. In the statement, the mother addressed the child and mentioned her brother, Ramsiah.

To Kumanjayi Little Baby, Me and Ramsiah miss and love you. I know you are in heaven with the rest of the family with Jesus and the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Me and your brother will meet you one day. We are giving our lives to Jesus. It is going to be so hard to live the rest of our lives without you. Ramsiah wants to tell you that when he sees you in heaven, he is going to give you the biggest hug ever. Love from Mum, and Ramsiah.

Statement from the mother of Sharon Granites

The family also expressed their gratitude to the community for the efforts made during the five-day search for the girl.