Twenty-five years after the murder of British backpacker Peter Falconio, police in Australia have released a series of previously unseen photographs from the original investigation. Falconio, who hailed from Huddersfield, was shot on 14 July 2001 on a remote section of the Stuart Highway near Barrow Creek, approximately 186 miles north of Alice Springs. Despite the subsequent conviction of his killer, Bradley Murdoch, the location of Falconio’s remains has never been disclosed.
The newly released images include a full-length photograph of Murdoch staring directly at the camera during the police inquiry, as well as pictures of the orange Volkswagen Kombi van the couple was driving at the time of the attack. Other images depict the crime scene and document the injuries sustained by Falconio’s girlfriend, Joanne Lees, including marks from the cable ties used to bind her wrists. Lees famously managed to escape from Murdoch, hiding in nearby scrubland for several hours before successfully flagging down a passing truck.
Northern Territory Police Force Commissioner Martin Dole described the 25-year anniversary as a significant milestone, noting that while the perpetrator was held accountable, the investigation remains open until Falconio can be laid to rest. "This was a traumatic and horrific event for Ms Lees, and for Peter's family, who have now gone such a long time without the answers they deserve," Commissioner Dole stated. He expressed hope that the public release of these materials might trigger new memories or provide a credible tip-off regarding the location of the body.
Bradley Murdoch was 43 years old when he stood trial in December 2005. The court heard that he had approached the couple’s vehicle, claiming he observed sparks emitting from their camper van. When Falconio went to inspect the vehicle, Murdoch shot him in the head. A unanimous jury later convicted Murdoch of the murder, as well as the assault and attempted kidnapping of Lees. Despite DNA evidence linking him to the scene and two failed appeals, Murdoch maintained his innocence throughout his life. He died in prison last year at age 67 from throat cancer without ever revealing the whereabouts of the victim.
Recently, police also released bodycam footage from an interview with Murdoch conducted just one week before his death in a final attempt to secure information. Commissioner Dole remarked that it is "deeply regrettable" that Murdoch died without providing closure to the family. The Northern Territory Police remain committed to the investigation, stating they will continue to pursue every available avenue to bring the case to its fullest conclusion.
