Except Seven. Did not air the press conference
1 Like
Was fearing the worst after the revelations last night and unfortunately these fears have been realised. Such a heartbreaking story.
4 Likes
This story has just flooded my socials this afternoon/evening. I can’t remember such an outpour of people that I know/follow posting about something like this. I guess between the two they were well connected in the gay community, media and even the AFL. It’s really just very sad thinking about what happened.
One of the reports that I saw tonight indicated that someone (most likely the cop charged with murder) was pretending to be him and was responding to messages on his phone.
8 Likes
Statement on behalf of AFL CEO Andrew Dillon
We are deeply saddened to learn of the distressing news today regarding Jesse Baird and his partner Luke Davies.
As the police investigation continues we understand it is a very upsetting and confronting time for all involved especially for Jesse and Luke’s families and those at the AFL who had a relationship with Jesse through his umpiring.
Jesse was a popular and respected member of our AFL umpiring family, having begun his umpire journey in 2011 in the Northern Football and Netball League (NFNL), before moving to Queensland in 2017 and then making his debut on the AFL umpiring list in 2020.
In 2023 Jesse moved to Sydney for work and to continue his AFL umpiring career, which spanned 62 AFL matches, including two finals.
We will continue to offer support to Jesse’s family and counselling to any of our team members in umpiring and the wider AFL football department regarding the news today.
The entire AFL family’s thoughts are with both Jesse and Luke’s families, as well as our umpiring and broader team during this very difficult time.
8 Likes
Just so horrific and sad beyond words.
It seems the alleged killer had a celebrity and fame fixation which continued to escalate. It’s alarming to think he was ever allowed into the police force given the celebrity fixation red flags.
RIP Jesse and Luke 
7 Likes
From a police famiy, perhaps not as thoroughly screened as other recruits.
OF in this case was just “of” the word, an “OF Couple” would be content creators on a certain site…
1 Like
Ah okay. Yeah I thought it about at first.
2 Likes
1 Like
Seven had “Ranger” Stacey as part of their report. Nine promised interviews with friends during the 6pm news.
More of 10’s coverage, including a gathering in Brisbane.
1 Like
Sunday Project will be interesting if there’s more reports, I don’t think Sarah will get through it and I imagine Hamish knew one if not both guys
2 Likes
A statement on behalf of those who worked closest with Jesse Baird at Studio 10:
Jesse was so much more than a colleague. He was a cherished friend who brightened every day with his positivity, cheeky winks and brilliant smile. He could handle anything from croc feeding to speeding down a river on water skis on live tv - anything to keep the audience entertained.
Through his roving reporter role he travelled the country and met hundreds of people from all walks of life. They were all without a doubt left a little brighter having been touched by his presence.
As his workmates and friends, we are completely shattered. Nothing was ever too much trouble. He worked so hard to make his dreams come true. He was up for anything and the life of the party always. It is quite simply impossible to overstate how much we adored him.
Our hearts ache for his family, who he loved so much and spoke of often. We’re also thinking of Luke’s family and what could have been for both of them.
Jessie & Luke, forever adored. Forever young and beautiful. Inside and out.
11 Likes
Sarah Harris shed some tears on the Project tonight as she spoke of Jesse. Very sad. 
9 Likes
I was in tears watching that. Gut wrenching
5 Likes
1 Like
According to Peter Ford this morning, Jesse was meant to start a new job as a Producer on a reality show - Peter didn’t mention which one.
2 Likes
Or could he possibly been picked for ImACeleb?
