New evidence has surfaced in the enduring mystery of the Beaumont Children in South Australia. It’s been disclosed that a prime suspect linked to their disappearance, Harry Phipps, was related by marriage to the Beaumont family, which could explain why the children may have felt comfortable with him. A private excavation team is currently re-examining land in Adelaide’s Western Suburbs that was once owned by Phipps, seeking the remains of Jane, Arna, and Grant Beaumont, who vanished from Glenelg Beach in 1966. This site was identified after two boys, who alleged they were paid to dig a grave-like hole shortly after the children went missing, came forward.
Retired detective Bill Hayes noted that the recent discovery of the familial link strengthens the existing theory that the children were familiar with their abductor. The excavation, which is being conducted pro bono by the excavation company, is crucial before the site is developed into housing. An anonymous donation of $10,000 further supports these efforts. While South Australia Police maintain that they do not expect the dig to yield results, they are keeping a watchful eye on developments. Independent MP Frank Pangallo expressed the sentiment that “all of Australia wants to see closure” in this tragic case.