Australia police release unseen photos in Falconio murder case 25 years on

Northern Territory Police have released previously unseen photographs from the investigation into the 2001 murder of British backpacker Peter Falconio, hoping the images may spark new leads in a case that remains unresolved after a quarter of a century.

Falconio, from Huddersfield, was shot on a remote highway near Barrow Creek while travelling with his girlfriend Joanne Lees. His body has never been found. Bradley Murdoch was convicted of the killing in 2005, but died in prison last year without revealing where Falconio’s remains were hidden.

The newly released photographs include a full‑length image of Murdoch during the investigation, crime scene shots of the couple’s orange Volkswagen Kombi van, and pictures showing Lees visibly traumatised and injured after escaping her attacker. Police Commissioner Martin Dole said the release marks a “significant milestone” and could jog memories that lead to a tip‑off

Falconio’s family has endured 25 years without closure. “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 said.

Authorities have reiterated that the investigation will not be considered complete until Falconio’s remains are found. A reward of up to A$500,000 remains on offer for information leading to their discovery.