A skull found by a bushwalker has been formally identified as the missing remains of Julian Story – with a former reality TV star facing charges over his murder.
Authorities had been searching for Story’s head since the 39-year-old’s dismembered body was discovered in the South Australian town of Port Lincoln on June 19.
The skull was identified after it was discovered in scrubland by a person pursuing a wandering dog in the town on July 31 and underwent testing.
“The remains were forwarded to Forensic Science SA for a detailed scientific examination which has confirmed their identity,” police said.
“Police extend their gratitude to the many members of the Port Lincoln community who have come forward with information to aid this investigation.”
Tamika Sueann Rose Chesser, 34, a former Beauty and the Geek reality TV contestant, has been charged with Story’s murder.
She was arrested on June 19 after Story’s body was found at the couple’s home at Port Lincoln, on the Eyre Peninsula.
Police issued a plea for public help on June 27 to find his remains “because tragically, we have not recovered the head of Julian Story”.
Chesser last appeared in Port Lincoln Magistrates Court on July 31 via video link from James Nash House, a psychiatric facility in Adelaide.
Along with a murder charge, Chesser was also accused of assaulting a police officer the day after her arrest and faces unrelated charges of assault and disorderly behaviour.
In June, police released still images and video of a woman they allege was Chesser walking on Port Lincoln streets that were recorded after the killing, which investigators allege occurred about midnight on June 17.
The images show a woman wearing a black headscarf and black full-body coverings, carrying a bag.
Police said they would not discount Story’s head was inside the bag.
Chesser’s next court appearance is slated for December 18.