A serving New South Wales police officer has been charged with murder after the bodies of television presenter Jesse Baird and his flight attendant partner Luke Davies were discovered in rural NSW, in a case that has sent shockwaves through the community.
Beau Lamarra-Condon, 28, who had previously served as Mr Baird's partner, was arrested on Friday morning and now faces two counts of murder. The accused officer, who was reportedly on duty at the time of the alleged killings, has been suspended from duty without pay.
Gruesome Discovery Follows Community Tip-Off
The investigation took a dramatic turn when police acting on information provided to Crime Stoppers located two bodies at a property in Bungonia, near Goulburn. The discovery came after a lengthy search operation that spanned multiple locations.
Assistant Commissioner Michael Fitzgerald revealed that the police received "crucial information" that led them to the rural property, where the bodies were found in surf bags. A projectile located at the initial crime scene matched a police-issued firearm.
Former Relationship Turns Deadly
Court documents suggest the tragedy unfolded after Mr Baird ended his relationship with the accused officer. The alleged murders are believed to have occurred at Mr Baird's Paddington home on Monday, with the bodies then transported to the rural location.
Friends of the couple reported becoming concerned after failing to hear from them and noticing unusual activity on their social media accounts. The alarm was raised when blood was discovered at Mr Baird's home and personal items belonging to both men were found in a nearby skip bin.
Community Mourns Promising Young Men
Jesse Baird, 26, was well-known as a presenter and red carpet reporter for Network 10, while Luke Davies, 29, worked as a flight attendant for Qantas. Colleagues and friends have described both men as vibrant, talented individuals with promising futures.
The entertainment and LGBTQ+ communities have expressed profound grief over the loss, with tributes pouring in for both men across social media platforms.
Police Force Faces Scrutiny
The case has raised serious questions within the NSW Police Force, particularly regarding the alleged use of a service weapon in the commission of the crimes. Commissioner Karen Webb has confirmed that a review of procedures will be conducted in light of the incident.
Lamarra-Condon, who had gained some notoriety as a police-verified social media influencer, remains in custody and is expected to face court again in April.
