Northern Territory police have reopened evidence boxes to release several previously unseen photographs from the investigation into the murder of British backpacker Peter Falconio and the attempted abduction of his girlfriend, Joanne Lees. Tuesday marks the 25th anniversary of the outback disappearance, which remains one of Australia's most horrific and culturally defining crimes, carrying unanswered questions for Falconio's family.
New images released to public
The released images include a photo of the orange Kombi van that Falconio and Lees were travelling in, a stunned-looking Lees hours after her encounter with Bradley John Murdoch on a remote part of the Stuart Highway on 14 July 2001, and Murdoch himself staring back at the camera. Another photograph shows evidence markers on a desert highway lining a dark red stain on the bitumen, while others depict cuts and grazes sustained by Lees during her ordeal.
Murdoch was convicted of Falconio's murder but died on 15 July 2025 without admitting to his crimes or disclosing the location of Falconio's remains. Lees narrowly managed to escape Murdoch, likely saving her own life.
Police commitment to solving case
NT Police Commissioner Martin Dole stated that despite Murdoch's conviction and life sentence, the investigation would remain open until Falconio's remains are found. "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," he said. "It is deeply regrettable that Murdoch died without, as far as we know, ever disclosing the location of Peter's remains. His cowardly silence has denied Peter's family, friends and loved ones the closure they deserve."
Dole added: "Twenty-five years is a significant milestone, and the Northern Territory Police Force remains committed to bringing this investigation to its fullest conclusion and will continue to pursue every avenue available."
Reward and appeal for information
A reward of $500,000 remains on offer for information leading directly to the discovery of Falconio's remains. Police believe Murdoch may have confided in someone, such as a family member or friend, despite his public denials. "There may still be someone who knows something, whether that be information they have never previously shared with police or something Murdoch said to them," Dole said. "No piece of information is too small; what may seem insignificant could prove critical in helping investigators finally resolve this case."
