WARNING: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised that this article contains the image of a deceased person.
The body of a five-year-old girl was tragically discovered in the Northern Territory following an extensive five-day search.
Authorities allege that the child was kidnapped and murdered by 47-year-old Jefferson Lewis.
The heart-wrenching incident has sent ripples of grief through the local community in Alice Springs and has captured national attention across Australia.
In a show of solidarity and support, the community has rallied around the grieving family, offering comfort and compassion during this difficult time.
Residents of Alice Springs came together at Anzac Oval for a poignant sunset vigil to honor the young girl’s memory.
Vigils were also being held in Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth, Darwin, Adelaide, Brisbane and Hobart, as well as in smaller communities.
Vigil attendees were asked to wear pink, which was the five-year-old’s favourite colour.
Piles of flowers, cards, toys and candles have grown in tribute to the little girl.
Alice Springs Mayor Asta Hill said the gatherings would provide a space for everyone to “channel their grief and show their support to the family”.
“Let’s embrace our grieving community, and express our care and solidarity with Kumanjayi Little Baby’s family,” Hill said on social media.
She also acknowledged the work and leadership of emergency services and local authorities who searched for the five-year-old.
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