Australian police have released previously unseen photographs from the investigation into the murder of British backpacker Peter Falconio, 25 years after he disappeared on a remote highway in the Northern Territory.

Falconio, from Huddersfield, was shot near Barrow Creek on 14 July 2001. His remains have never been recovered. Police hope the newly published images will revive memories and produce information that could finally lead investigators to his body.

Survivor escaped and raised the alarm

Falconio’s girlfriend, Joanne Lees, escaped after the attacker bound her wrists with cable ties. She hid in scrubland for several hours before stopping a passing truck. One released photograph shows Lees shortly after the ordeal.

Bradley Murdoch was convicted in 2005 of murdering Falconio and assaulting and attempting to kidnap Lees. Prosecutors said he stopped the couple by claiming their camper van was producing sparks before shooting Falconio and restraining Lees. Murdoch maintained his innocence despite DNA evidence and died in prison in 2025 without revealing where Falconio’s remains were located.

Police appeal remains active

Northern Territory Police Commissioner Martin Dole said the case cannot be considered closed until Falconio’s remains are found and his family can lay him to rest. The newly released material includes an investigation photograph of Murdoch, images of Lees and pictures of the couple’s orange Volkswagen Kombi van.

Police say every available lead will continue to be pursued. A reward of up to A$500,000 remains available for information that results in the discovery of Falconio’s remains.

Source: Reporting by the BBC.