Man stabbed to death as Milingimbi family feud erupts into violent brawl

A community gathering aimed at resolving family disputes has ended with tragedy in a remote town.

A man has been stabbed to death after a community meeting between feuding families in a remote town escalated into a violent brawl.

Police received multiple reports of fighting in Milingimbi, the largest of the Crocodile islands along the north coast, between 2.09pm and 3.53pm on Tuesday.

A man’s body has been found following a large brawl in Milingimbi. Picture: Supplied
“Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received multiple reports of large-scale fighting occurring in the community,” police said in a statement.

“It is alleged some members involved in the fighting were armed with edged weapons.”

Police found the 26-year-old man’s body upon their arrival at the scene, with one puncture-like wound in his back.

NT Police acting commander Mark Grieve confirmed the brawl started during a community meeting between feuding family groups.

NT Police acting commander NT police acting commander Mark Grieve said the death occurred following a community meeting. Picture: NT Police
“This will no doubt take time to work through with the reasons for this feuding yet to be fully determined,” he said.

“The investigation is very much in its infancy, at this stage we do not have any persons in custody nor have we positively identified any persons of interest.

“The process will be difficult due to the heightened state of the community at this time.”

When questioned on whether the feud was related to a previous back stabbing in Milingimbi, acting commander Grieve said it was too early in the investigation to link the incidents.

Additional resources, including major crime and forensic units, have been deployed in the area as police brace for a protracted investigation.

Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 131 444 or attend their local police station.