According to her family, Sharon was last seen when taken to bed around 11:30 PM on Saturday. Police said Jefferson Lewis, who was released from prison six days earlier, had a loose connection to the family and was staying at their residence. Assistant Commissioner Peter Malley said it was "pretty easy to put two and two together." Police believe Lewis was probably under the influence of alcohol and led Sharon toward an area near the Alice Springs Telegraph Station, now declared a crime scene.
Police said about 70 volunteers joined the search on Tuesday, and resources deployed include helicopters, heat-seeking drones, dog units, horses, motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, Aboriginal trackers, and army personnel. Authorities were called to a party at the Old Timers town camp on Saturday night but found no offences. They have located a number of items of interest in the area near the telegraph station. Malley stated that their top priority is to find Sharon safe, and they are doing everything possible, but acknowledged that as time passes, the chances of finding her alive reduce, which is why so many resources have been committed. Police do not have a motive for the alleged abduction and are unsure if Lewis had access to a vehicle. Lewis has a criminal record from 2016 to 2025, according to court documents, including convictions for aggravated assaults and breaching domestic violence orders.
Our number one mission is to find little Sharon safe and well and we're doing everything within our power.
It was pretty easy to put two and two together.
As time goes on, the chances of finding her alive and well reduce, hence the amount of resources we have here in Alice Springs.