Never-before-seen body-worn footage has been released by the Northern Territory police 25 years after the murder of British backpacker Peter Falconio. The video shows officers attempting to get killer Bradley John Murdoch to confess and reveal the location of Falconio's body, weeks before his death in 2025.
Murdoch's refusal to cooperate
In the footage, Murdoch is seen being questioned by police but repeatedly refuses to disclose where he hid Falconio's remains. The body-worn camera captures the tense exchange, with Murdoch remaining silent or giving evasive answers.
Murdoch was convicted in 2005 of murdering Falconio, a 28-year-old British backpacker, and assaulting and attempting to kidnap his partner, Joanne Lees. He was sentenced to life in prison.
The crime and its aftermath
Falconio disappeared in July 2001 while travelling with Lees along the Stuart Highway in the Northern Territory. His body has never been found. The case attracted widespread media attention and led to a high-profile trial.
Lees testified against Murdoch, describing how she was attacked and managed to escape. Murdoch maintained his innocence but was found guilty based on forensic evidence and Lees' testimony.
Release of footage
The NT police released the footage as part of a documentary marking the 25th anniversary of the murder. A police spokesperson said the video provides insight into the investigation and Murdoch's demeanor during questioning.
The footage has reignited interest in the case, with many hoping Murdoch might have eventually revealed the location of Falconio's body before his death. However, no such information has been forthcoming.
