Ongoing Search for Alleged Murder Victim Julian Story in South Australia

In a troubling development in South Australia, authorities continue their search for the missing remains of Julian Story, a 39-year-old alleged murder victim. The search, which resumed on June 28, 2025, follows the discovery of Story's body—devoid of its head—after police responded to a fire at his residence in Port Lincoln on June 19. Tamika Chesser, 34, has been charged with Story's murder and is currently in a mental health facility following her arrest at the crime scene.

Port Lincoln, a small coastal community located on the Eyre Peninsula, has been shaken by the incident, prompting local officials and residents to advocate for greater mental health resources in the area. Diana Mislov, the mayor of Port Lincoln, expressed her condolences to Story's family and reiterated the need for enhanced psychological support services.

"We need more mental health support, we need more psychiatrists, we need more one-on-one support," stated Mislov. "We don’t need short-term measures to stopgap symptoms; we need really long programs that will help people."

This tragic case has drawn attention not only for its gruesome details but also for its implications regarding mental health care in rural communities. Chesser's family revealed that she had previously sought assistance in a mental health facility, raising questions about the adequacy of the support provided to individuals in crisis.

As police and State Emergency Service (SES) crews conducted searches along the Port Lincoln coastline for Story's remains, local sentiment remained focused on the human aspect of the tragedy. Mayor Mislov emphasized, "He was a human being who didn’t deserve this and was much loved."

The ongoing investigation has also attracted media attention due to Chesser's past as a contestant on the reality television show 'Beauty and the Geek,' where she appeared at the age of 20 in 2010. Her family's concerns regarding her mental health were brought to light as they urged for better care systems, reflecting a broader issue impacting many in the region.

As the investigation unfolds, authorities are continuing to gather evidence and support from the community, while the search for Julian Story's remains highlights the urgent need for comprehensive mental health care in South Australia. As the situation develops, further updates from law enforcement and local officials are anticipated to clarify the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.