Police Probe Continues into Circumstances of 5-Year-Old's Death

Authorities continue to investigate the death of a five-year-old boy, Archie Ranger, who was discovered duct-taped inside a sleeping bag at a rural property outside Grafton. The case has drawn attention to the family's portrayal of their lives online.

Social media posts from the boy's stepmother, Steph Luhrmann, previously depicted a seemingly idyllic "happy chaos" of farm life. However, new details have emerged that paint a different picture of the household. One post included an AI-generated image that appeared to show Ms. Luhrmann pregnant, hinting at a family development that may be under scrutiny by investigators. This image was shared on her business page.

The family, including Ms. Luhrmann and Archie's father, Neil Ranger, have been interviewed by police. No charges have been laid as investigators await the results of a post-mortem examination on Archie's body.

Photographs of the blended family have also surfaced, showing Ms. Luhrmann and Mr. Ranger with their children. One image features Archie and his siblings wearing T-shirts that read, "On my mom's last nerve." The couple have been interviewed by police, but no charges have been laid.

Archie was reportedly born with an eye misalignment. The family resided on Carrs Island, a location just outside Grafton along the Clarence River.

Grafton locals have expressed deep sadness over the death of a child in their community. Calls to Ms. Luhrmann and her parents, who reside locally, went unanswered on Monday.

Steph Luhrmann and Neil Ranger are pictured with their blended family.