What would eventually become one of the most haunting crimes in Australian history began with a search of the Beaumonts’ residence, which police wanted to rule out that the children weren’t hiding. That night, Jim rode in a patrol car as they passed Somerton Park and Glenelg, street by street. And when the police dropped him off, he went back to his car and continued his search.
By morning, boats from the Sea Rescue Team had joined the search effort, the airport and train stations were alerted and barricades were put in place to monitor anyone driving in and out of Adelaide. The police patrolled the streets with loud speakers so everyone could hear them asking if anyone had seen the Beaumont children. Taxi drivers received the word, Jim was a former driver and therefore their personal chauffeur, and people of all ages, including members of Jane’s Brownie’s team, walked over to them. this area.
And, naturally, reporters flocked to the family home, and Jim spoke to them mid-morning on January 28 from his back porch. “Someone has to hold them against their will, or they’re going home by now,” he said. “It’s a complete mystery, I can’t understand it. My kids will cry. It’s like a nightmare.”
