A policeman has been charged with murdering Australian TV personality Jesse Baird and his boyfriend Luke Davies.
On 23 February, Beaumont Lamarre-Condon, who was Baird’s ex-boyfriend, handed himself into Sydney Police and was charged with two counts of murder.
Later that day he also appeared in Waverley Local Court, where he is reported to have shown no emotion as the charges against him were read out.
According to court documents, the two men were allegedly murdered between 12:01am and 5:30pm on 19 February and a “significant” amount of blood was found at Baird’s home in Paddington.
Neighbours reportedly heard a “verbal argument” that morning.
Police have alleged that the bodies were then moved in a rented van that was captured on CCTV footage the same evening. The van has since been “ceased” by authorities.
“Charges have been submitted, police will refuse bail,” Detective Superintendent Danny Doherty from State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad told reporters.
“Police located a projectile at the premises which had been discharged…this has been ballistically matched to a NSW Police firearm.”
In addition, police have seized a number of items in Cronulla, 17 miles from the crime scene.
The bodies have yet to be found or a cause of death determined.
Doherty added: “It’s really important that we do locate the bodies, not only for the cause of death but the answers for the family because they are still grieving.”
Lamarre-Condon is expected to appear before court on 23 April.
Baird and Lamarre-Condon reportedly ended their relationship a few months ago and prior to joining the police in 2019, he had been a celebrity blogger.
Police agree to not march in Sydney Mardi Gras
On 26 February, the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras organisers released a statement and confirmed “the Board has taken the decision to request that the Police do not march in the 2024 Parade,” currently scheduled for 2 March.
“In recent days many have voiced their concerns to us, particularly regarding feelings of unease at the Parade. Their concerns centre on whether it can still be a space to protest, celebrate, and advocate for equality, as well as to honour and grieve for those we’ve lost, given the NSW Police’s participation in this year’s event.
“Our community needs space to grieve the loss of Jesse and Luke who, before this tragedy, would have been here celebrating with us at the Festival.”
In response to the decision, a spokesperson for the force said: “The NSW police force has been advised that the board of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras has decided to withdraw the invitation to NSW police to participate in this year’s event.
“While disappointed with this outcome, NSW police will continue to work closely with the LGBTIQA+ community and remain committed to working with organisers to provide a safe environment for all those participating in and supporting this Saturday’s parade.”
This will be the first time the force has not taken part in the parade in 20 years, Karen Webb, NSW police commissioner, told reporters.
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