The search for five-year-old Sharon has ended in tragedy after authorities discovered the body of a young child believed to be the missing girl in a remote area of Central Australia.

Sharon’s mother released a raw and emotional statement shortly after being informed of the discovery. In the message, she expressed her profound grief, saying: “I don’t know how I go on. My baby was everything to me. She was my whole world.” The devastated mother described the loss as “unimaginable” and thanked the community and emergency services for their efforts during the extensive search.

Police confirmed that a child’s body was located late yesterday in bushland approximately 40 kilometres from the town where Sharon was last seen. While formal identification is still pending, authorities have stated that the remains are consistent with the five-year-old girl who vanished earlier this month.

Investigators have not yet released detailed information about the condition of the body or the exact circumstances surrounding the discovery, citing the sensitivity of the ongoing investigation. However, sources familiar with the case have described the scene as deeply disturbing. Forensic teams remain at the location, conducting a thorough examination and collecting evidence.

Jefferson Lewis, the 47-year-old violent ex-convict wanted in connection with Sharon’s abduction, remains the prime suspect. Police believe he may still be in the region and have warned the public that he is extremely dangerous. A large-scale manhunt involving specialist police units, aerial support, and tracking teams is continuing.

The small Central Australian community is reeling from the news. Residents have described the tragedy as devastating, with many expressing fear and sadness over the fate of the young girl. Local schools and community centres have offered counseling services to help residents cope with the loss.

Sharon’s family has been placed under the care of victim support services. Relatives have requested privacy as they grieve, while also appealing for anyone with information about Jefferson Lewis’s whereabouts to contact police immediately.

The discovery has shifted the investigation from a missing persons case to a homicide inquiry. Homicide detectives have taken over the case, and a full post-mortem examination is expected to determine the cause of death.

As the community mourns, police have reiterated their warning not to approach Lewis under any circumstances. A substantial reward remains in place for information leading to his arrest.

The tragic end to the search for five-year-old Sharon has left the entire region in shock. Her mother’s public statement has highlighted the unimaginable pain felt by the family, while authorities continue their urgent hunt for the suspect.

Further updates are expected as forensic results and the ongoing manhunt progress.