Police have uncovered what they believe to be a 5-year-old girl’s underwear at a crime scene near the spot where Sharon Granites was last seen holding hands with suspect Jefferson Lewis before vanishing.
Disappearance Details
Sharon Granites disappeared from Ilyperenye (Old Timers) Town Camp outside Alice Springs in Australia’s Northern Territory around 11:30 p.m. on Anzac Day. Authorities suspect abduction by Jefferson Lewis, a convicted criminal released from prison just six days earlier. Witnesses reported seeing the pair walk into the darkness together.
Sharon’s mother, who knew Lewis and had visited his home that evening to do laundry, remains distraught. Police describe Sharon as a sweet, affectionate little girl.
Key Evidence Uncovered
NT Police Acting Assistant Commissioner Peter Malley announced the discovery of the suspected underwear, along with a bright yellow T-shirt Lewis wore earlier that night—captured on bodycam footage—and a doona. These items are undergoing forensic testing in Darwin, with results expected Thursday.
The findings heighten fears that Sharon suffered sexual assault. Malley noted alcohol consumption at the scene and that Lewis was likely under the influence.
Suspect’s Criminal History
Lewis boasts a lengthy record, including an 18-month sentence in October 2024 with a 12-month non-parole period. In March 2025, he received four months for breaching a domestic violence order and resisting arrest. Earlier charges involved aggravated assault and bail breaches. He was released without conditions despite his history.
Ongoing Search Efforts
Into the fourth day, teams scour rough terrain, dense grassland, soft sand, and long grass within a 20-kilometer radius of Alice Springs. The Australian Defence Force, Aboriginal trackers, and about 70 volunteers assist. Police have checked addresses in Yuendumu and Lajamanu linked to Lewis.
Intelligence shared with South Australia, Western Australia, and Queensland forces points to Lewis remaining local. Malley stated, “We still believe that he is local, but we will consider everything.”
Northern Territory Police Commissioner Martin Dole urges the community: “We absolutely, firmly believe there’s members of the community that know where he is. Tell us. Tell us what you know.”
Malley added, “We are right on the threshold of her still being alive,” as hopes fade for finding Sharon safe.
