Reality TV Contestant Charged in Shocking Port Lincoln Murder
In a grim development out of South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula, Tamika Chesser, a former reality TV contestant, now faces a murder charge following the discovery of her partner’s dismembered body. The victim, Julian Story, 39, was found in devastating condition at the couple’s home in Port Lincoln, but notably, his head is yet to be recovered. Authorities are urgently appealing for public assistance to help locate it and bring resolution to the grieving family.
Details Emerge as Suppression Order Lifts
Chesser, 34, known for taking second place on a 2010 series of Beauty and the Geek, appeared in Adelaide Magistrates Court via video link where a suppression order on her identity was officially lifted. She was arrested on June 19, two days after Story is believed to have been murdered around midnight on June 17.
Detective Superintendent Darren Fielke of the Major Crime Investigation Section revealed during a media briefing that Story’s body had been dismembered, and although some remains have been located, the victim’s head remains missing. The detective emphasized the emotional toll this has taken on Story’s family and expressed the investigation’s urgency in recovering the head to allow them a proper funeral and closure.
Community Appeal: Assistance Needed to Track Movements
The police have called on locals to review any CCTV or dashcam footage, particularly between midnight of June 17 and the afternoon of June 19, to trace Chesser’s movements. Surveillance footage shows a woman believed to be Chesser walking dogs dressed in a distinctive black hooded outfit during this period. Authorities note she does not frequently use vehicles, often opting to walk with as many as three dogs at a time.
Charges and Court Proceedings
Alongside the murder charge, Chesser faces accusations of disposing of human remains to obstruct justice and assaulting a police officer. After her initial court appearance, she was denied bail and is currently held under a mental health detention order.
Chesser is expected to return to court in December for a committal hearing as police continue to decipher the complex crime scene.
Background and Family Response
The incident came to light when emergency services were dispatched to a fire reported at the property on Flinders Highway. A neighbor had seen smoke and observed Chesser departing the scene with her dogs. Upon investigation, responders found Story’s burnt remains inside.
The family of Julian Story released a heartfelt statement thanking emergency personnel and the community, highlighting their gratitude for the compassion shown during this traumatic time. They shared their profound grief and appreciation for the support helping them navigate an unimaginable loss.
Looking Ahead
- Investigation is ongoing with no clear motive identified yet.
- Authorities continue seeking public help to locate the missing part of the victim’s remains.
- Chesser’s next court appearance is scheduled for December.
The tragic case serves as a somber reminder of the complexities and challenges law enforcement faces when uncovering the full details behind such distressing crimes. The community’s cooperation remains vital as police strive to piece together what happened in these critical days leading up to Chesser’s arrest.
