Inside Jefferson Lewis’ Squalid Hideout and the Chilling Message Scrawled on the Wall – as He’s Charged with Murdering Five-Year-Old Kumanjayi Little Baby

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New details have emerged of the derelict building where Jefferson Lewis is believed to have taken shelter in the days after the alleged abduction and murder of five-year-old Kumanjayi Little Baby. The abandoned former factory, riddled with holes and covered in graffiti, sits just a few hundred metres from Charles Creek town camp where the 47-year-old was eventually confronted by locals.

The Squalid Hideout

The structure is well-known in the area as a vandalised squat filled with old mattresses, scattered rubbish, empty alcohol bottles, and discarded clothing. One room, formerly a bathroom with no windows, contained a relatively cleaner mattress with a blanket — suggesting it may have been used for sleeping away from view.

Locals believe Lewis used the building as temporary shelter while attempting to move through the area under cover of darkness, possibly heading toward his hometown of Lajamanu (over 1,300km away). He was spotted emerging from long grass near the camp on the night of his arrest.

The Chilling Message

In a disturbing detail reported by the Daily Mail, the words “LIKE TO… HURT KIDZ” were found scrawled on a surface near the entryway. Authorities and reporters note it was likely written by a vandal after Lewis’s arrest. A second, partially obscured message appeared below it in different handwriting. Police have visited the site as part of their enquiries.

Arrest and Charges

Lewis was arrested late on Thursday, April 30, after a group of young locals recognised him and a violent confrontation ensued. He was beaten, hospitalised, and later airlifted to Darwin for safety. He has been charged with the murder of Kumanjayi Little Baby and two other offences (details suppressed for legal reasons).

Kumanjayi was taken from her bed at the Old Timers (Ilyperenye) town camp in the early hours of April 26. Her body was found five days later near the Todd River, about 5km from the camp.

Community Reaction and Aftermath

The arrest triggered significant unrest in Alice Springs, including clashes outside the hospital. Community members and elders have since called for calm, peace, and respect during “sorry business.” Vigils have been held, with mourners wearing pink — Kumanjayi’s favourite colour.

Lewis, who has a history of violent offences including domestic violence, remains in custody in Darwin. His first court appearance was conducted without him physically present, and the case has been adjourned.

A Tragedy That Demands Answers

This case has once again highlighted serious challenges around safety, child protection, and alcohol-related violence in parts of Alice Springs and remote communities. Kumanjayi Little Baby’s family continues to grieve while urging the community to honour her memory through peace rather than further violence.

Kumanjayi is remembered as a beautiful, happy little girl who loved her family and cartoons. Her short life has left an indelible mark on the nation.

This article is based on publicly reported information. Cultural protocols regarding the deceased are respected.

Source and full photos: Inside Jefferson Lewis’ squalid hideout and the chilling message scrawled on the wall – as he’s charged with murdering five-year-old Kumanjayi Little Baby | Daily Mail Online