The quiet regional town of Port Lincoln remains in shock as a gruesome murder case takes an unexpected turn, with the woman accused of beheading, dismembering and setting her boyfriend's body alight now revealed to be pregnant while awaiting her first court appearance.
From Reality TV to Murder Charges
Tamika Chesser, once known to Australian audiences as a contestant on reality television show Beauty and the Geek, now finds herself at the centre of one of South Australia's most disturbing criminal cases. The 34-year-old stands accused of killing her boyfriend Julian Story in their Port Lincoln unit in June, just one day after he celebrated his 39th birthday.
Police allege that on June 17, Chesser murdered Story before decapitating him and attempting to burn his remains in the couple's bathroom. The case has brought the coastal community to a standstill, with large-scale searches for Story's remains spanning several weeks and involving police, SES volunteers and extensive coastline sweeps.
Pregnancy Revealed in Secure Facility
Chesser remains in custody under the Mental Health Act at James Nash House, a secure forensic mental health facility, where she awaits her first court appearance in December. It has now been confirmed that she is pregnant, though authorities stress she did not become pregnant while inside the facility.
South Australia's Premier Peter Malinauskas described the charges against Chesser as "very unique" and "egregious," noting he would be surprised if there was precedent for such crimes. He confirmed that strict protocols are in place for women who are pregnant while in custody.
"Women who find themselves pregnant while in custody have access to very specific services that are tailored to prison health," Malinauskas stated. "Just as importantly, if not more importantly, the wellbeing of a life that exists in utero is being looked after as well."
Community Reels from Gruesome Discovery
The investigation took a grim turn when Story's skull was discovered in bushland near Port Lincoln by a walker and his beagle weeks after the alleged murder. The discovery ended an extensive search operation that had gripped the local community.
Health Minister Chris Picton added that established protocols between corrections and health services are being followed in Chesser's case. He noted that child protection authorities may become involved depending on circumstances, given Chesser is likely to remain in custody.
"This will be dealt with working between corrections and our health services," Picton confirmed.
Chesser faces charges of murder, interfering with human remains, and assaulting a police officer. Meanwhile, Story's family has released a heartfelt statement thanking police, emergency services and the wider community for their compassion during this difficult time.
"We are navigating an unimaginable loss, and your care has brought comfort amid the chaos," the family said. "Your prayers, presence, and quiet strength mean more than words can say."
