Police investigate suspicious death of five-year-old Archie Ranger in Grafton area

Five-year-old Archie Ranger was found dead at his home on Carrs Island, north-west of Grafton, on 12 October, and police are investigating the circumstances as suspicious. Police allege Archie and his two siblings had been duct-taped into sleeping bags, with tape over their eyes at night; Archie was unresponsive and could not be revived. His father and stepmother, who were at home, have been interviewed, and investigators will consider possible charges after the post-mortem.

Police have reportedly been called to the property before, in 2025, and raised concerns with the NSW Department of Communities and Justice. The siblings are now being cared for by other family members, while Archie’s parents are receiving medical care and mental health assessments, according to the report. Neighbours said the family kept to themselves; social media posts showed family activities and promoted a hobby farm, while the rented property was listed at $400 a week.