Riots erupt in Alice Springs after child murder arrest

0:00Good afternoon tensions have erupted into violent riots in Aller Springs after the arrest of accused child killer Jefferson Lewis. The murder suspect was brutally beaten by locals before police intervened. And a warning for our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island viewers, this report contains images of the deceased person. Let's go live to Sam Payne, who is in Aller Springs. Sam authorities have called for car. Yeah, good afternoon, Sally. They have called for car, especially what occurred here at Aller Springs Hospital last night. Now, I don't get the viewers an understanding before we show the vision. Behind this Aller Springs Hospital scene, that had more than 20 police officers standing there. They had non-lethal beanbag shotguns firing rounds into the crowd as well as firing tear gas. Now, we understand there was a group of 400 people outside demanding the Jefferson Lewis,

1:01the 47-year-old accused killer who was inside to come out. They were screaming at police, they torched a police vehicle, they damaged multiple ambulances before they finally were able to disperse the crowds nearby businesses were looted as well. They finally were able to leave and then it's understood Jefferson Lewis, who was actually beaten. As you mentioned earlier, he was found in nearby town camp by police. They got him out of there, brought him here. He was then transferred late last night to Darwin. He's now in police custody, expected to be charged. The police commissioner is now calling for calm. Take a listen. The behaviour that we saw last night cannot be explained away, excused or accepted. We certainly understand people's anger and frustration, but we want the community to come together. So at this point in time, there's a heavier police presence than usual. Bottleshops have been closed for the evening sporting events have been cancelled. It's understood there's a memorial this afternoon at 5.30 pm to pay respects to that little girl

2:04as a whole community comes together to mourn her life, Sally. Okay, thank you very much, Sam Payne there in Alice Springs.