Search Continues for Missing Remains of Julian Story, Accused’s Identity Revealed
Meta Description: The search for the remains of Julian Story, allegedly murdered in Port Lincoln, continues as police investigate and the accused, Tamika Chesser, appears in court.
The search for the missing remains of Julian Story, 39, continues in Port Lincoln, Australia, following an unsuccessful water operation over the weekend. Authorities are now focusing their efforts on a land-based search, as the case surrounding his alleged murder deepens and more details emerge. A warning accompanies this report: the following story contains details some readers may find distressing.
Unsuccessful Water Search and Ongoing Efforts
South Australia Police’s (SAPOL) Water Operations Unit recently completed a search of the waters surrounding Port Lincoln, but were unable to locate any further human remains. Despite this setback, emergency services are maintaining a robust presence, continuing the search on land this week. The Port Lincoln State Emergency Service (SES) expressed gratitude to the volunteers and workers involved in the search, acknowledging the emotional toll the case has taken.
“This has been an incredibly confronting and emotional time,” the SES stated in a Facebook post. “We extend our heartfelt thanks to all emergency services who have responded with compassion and professionalism.”
Identity of Accused Revealed After Suppression Order Lifted
Last week, a suppression order was lifted, revealing the identity of Tamika Chesser, 34, as the woman accused of murdering her partner, Julian Story. Chesser, who previously appeared on the reality television show Beauty and the Geek in 2010, appeared in court last week via video link from the James Nash House psychiatric facility.
Details of the Investigation Emerge
Police initiated the investigation after discovering some of Mr. Story’s remains at a Port Lincoln property following a report of a fire at the unit. Shortly after, Ms. Chesser was arrested. During a press conference on Friday, June 27, a senior official revealed the disturbing details of the case.
“We know that after his alleged murder, Julian’s body was dismembered and while I won’t provide any further details about that at this time, I can tragically say that we have not recovered the head of Julian Story,” the official stated. “I can only imagine… the grief this news is causing Julian’s family.”
The official emphasized the importance of locating Mr. Story’s head, stating, “It is crucial that we locate Julian’s head so that his family has the opportunity to lay him to rest.” The family of Julian Story has publicly thanked emergency services and first responders for their compassion and professionalism.
Appeal for Public Assistance
Investigators believe Mr. Story was killed around midnight on Tuesday, June 17. Police have launched an appeal for more information and released CCTV footage of Ms. Chesser taken between June 17 and 19, around the time the fire at the unit was reported. Residents of Port Lincoln are being asked to review CCTV and dashcam footage and to contact Crime Stoppers with any information regarding Ms. Chesser’s movements.
A senior official confirmed that police know Ms. Chesser had recently arrived in Port Lincoln and that she and Mr. Story were in a domestic relationship. “We know that they were in a relationship together… it’s something that’s being explored, that domestic relationship,” the official said. At this time, police have stated there is no obvious motive for the alleged crime.
The Port Lincoln SES shared their support on social media, writing, “Our thoughts are with Julian Story’s loved ones and everyone in the community.”
Ms. Chesser is scheduled to reappear in court in December.
