A five-year-old Aboriginal girl, Kumanjayi Granites (also referred to as Kumanjayi Little Baby), who had been missing in Alice Springs after an alleged abduction, was found dead south of the designated crime scene as police confirmed the discovery.

Police located a body about 5km south of Old Timers camp, triggering a postmortem to determine the cause and timing of death as investigators pursue a criminal case and coronial process.

NT Police Commissioner Martin Dole announced the discovery and said the postmortem would determine the cause and time of death while the criminal investigation proceeds.

The Sydney Morning Herald reports the missing girl was found dead days after her suspected abduction, reinforcing the national significance of the case.

Federal Indigenous Australians Minister Senator Malarndirri McCarthy joined search efforts, offering support and acknowledging the community’s collective effort and-grief for the family.

The story sits within the national crime beat, with ongoing investigations and authorities urging the public to cooperate as the case unfolds.

The investigation remains active, with a postmortem and continued pursuit of leads and the suspect in this case.

Hundreds of volunteers and NT Police conducted a multi-day search spanning five days, covering 6 square kilometers on foot and the remaining 14 square kilometers with helicopters and heat-detecting drones, involving more than 170 volunteers on the day the body was found.

Tangentyere Council Aboriginal Corporation coordinated the community response, supporting the family and coordinating volunteers, while highlighting community pride in standing with vulnerable individuals.

Authorities identified the suspect as the top priority, warned the public against aiding him, and urged anyone who encounters him to contact police.

An arrest warrant had been issued for Jefferson Lewis, who was last seen with the girl holding her hand late on a Saturday, with forensic teams recovering matching clothing items.

The development follows ongoing efforts in the search for the missing girl, reflecting the continuation of authorities’ actions as the case evolves.