A search for the outstanding remains of alleged South Australian murder victim Julian Story has been paused as police review CCTV of his accused killer’s movements.
Warning: This story contains content some readers may find distressing.
Former reality star Tamika Chesser, 34, was charged with the murder of her partner Story, 39, at the couple’s home on the Flinders Highway in Port Lincoln on South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula.
Chesser remains in the mental health facility James Nash House and is yet to be interviewed by police.
After several days of a land and sea search for Story’s head, SA police today confirmed the search has been suspended.
Police said efforts are now focused on identifying CCTV at locations crucial to the investigation.
“Rather than deploying our resources without any sort of planned approach, we are searching areas where we think we might have positive results and that requires continuous assessment,” said SA Police Commissioner Grant Stevens.
“In today’s environment, CCTV is everywhere.
“So as much as [we can] try and identify all locations that have CCTV that might add value to the investigation.”
He added: “There is also potential that people do have cameras that we’re not aware of and we’re asking anyone who has CCTV footage from that period of time to contact police and allow us to determine whether there is any evidentiary benefit to that imagery”
Stevens urged anyone with information, not matter how “inconsequential” it may seem, to come forward.
Story’s body was found without his head after police responded to a small fire in the yard of the house about 3.35pm on June 19.
Chesser was arrested at the scene.
“We know that after his alleged murder, Julian was dismembered,” Detective Superintendent Darren Fielke told media last week.
Fielke said police had not yet recovered Story’s head and were calling for the public’s help to track Chesser’s movements.
“It is crucial that we locate Julian’s head,” Fielke said.
“I can only imagine the grief this is causing Julian’s family.
“Julian’s family are devastated.”
Major Crime detectives yesterday released images of the clothing Chesser was wearing on or around June 19 in the hope that it will jog people’s memories.
“We are releasing the details of this horrific crime because it is vital for Julian’s family to peacefully lay him to rest,” Fielke said.
“We know that Tamika did not drive a vehicle and regularly walked around the township of Port Lincoln.
“We are appealing to anyone who can help us to identify Tamika’s movements to please contact police.”
Story’s family issued a statement where they thanked police and first responders for their help following an “unimaginable loss”.
“On behalf of our family, we want to sincerely thank the South Australian Police, emergency services, and first responders for their compassion and professionalism during this devastating time,” the statement reads.
“We are navigating an unimaginable loss, and your care has brought comfort amid the chaos.
“We are also deeply grateful to our family and friends and this extraordinary community whose kindness and support have helped carry us through.
“Your prayers, presence, and quiet strength mean more than words can say.”
