Missing 5yo: Critical Evidence Found in Alice Springs Search

Police in Australia’s Northern Territory have uncovered critical evidence in the search for five-year-old Sharon Granites, who was reported missing on Saturday, April 25, from her home in Alice Springs. Authorities believe Sharon was abducted and are focusing their investigation on Jefferson Lewis, 47, who was recently released from prison.

Assistant Commissioner Peter Malley told reporters on Wednesday that investigators seized several items from a “really contaminated” camping ground, where Lewis was reportedly staying. These items include a doona cover, a shirt believed to have been worn by Lewis, and a pair of child’s underwear. The evidence has been transported to Darwin for forensic analysis, with results expected on Thursday.

“We have seized a number of items from that crime scene…being a doona cover, the shirt that Jefferson Lewis was wearing, and a pair of child’s underwear,” Malley stated. Police are investigating the possibility that Sharon was sexually assaulted, and the forensic analysis is intended to confirm or deny this.

According to police, Lewis was seen walking away from Sharon’s home with the young girl around 11:00 p.m. On Saturday, holding her hand. He remains at large, and authorities believe he is still in the local area. Malley expressed frustration with the lack of cooperation from some members of the community, stating that individuals are withholding information that could aid in the search.

“There are people in the community that are not telling us what we need to hear and that is really frustrating,”

Assistant Commissioner Peter Malley

The search for Sharon Granites has been ongoing for four days, hampered by challenging conditions at the camping ground. Authorities have described the scene as “really contaminated” due to the presence of other campers who were not involved in the suspected abduction. Despite the difficulties, police remain determined to find Sharon alive.

Sharon’s family has made a desperate plea for her safe return. SMH.com.au reported that the family described Sharon as “only a little baby” and begged for her to be brought home.

Jefferson Lewis has a history of domestic and family violence-related offenses, according to police. He was known to authorities and was staying at the Old Timers Camp at the time of Sharon’s disappearance. The BBC reported that Lewis vanished around the same time as Sharon.

Police are urging anyone with information about Jefferson Lewis or Sharon Granites’ whereabouts to come forward. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are continuing to search for both Sharon and Lewis.

If you have any information regarding Sharon Granites’ disappearance, please contact the Northern Territory Police at 131444.