NT Police have charged a 34-year-old man with one count of murder over the death of a 17-year-old girl in the remote community of Galiwinku on Monday, with police saying the man “was in a domestic relationship with the deceased at the time of her death”.

Police received a report that the teen was unconscious at a residence on Monday around 11am, but she was declared dead when police and staff from the local health clinic arrived.

The 34-year-old was arrested then while detectives continued their investigation.

On Thursday police said an autopsy was completed and determined the cause of death to be “blunt forced injuries”.

The man has been charged with murder and is expected to appear in Darwin Local Court on Friday.

“Investigations indicate the man was in a domestic relationship with the deceased at the time of her death,” Detective Acting Superintendent Paul Lawson said in a statement, adding it had been a “complex investigation”.

“A young woman has lost her life, and our thoughts are with her family and community. Our local members remain in the community and are working closely with those affected. Police would like to thank the community for their assistance during this period.

“A file will also be prepared for the Coroner.”

If you or someone you know are experiencing difficulties due to domestic violence, support services are available, including, but not limited to, 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or Lifeline 131 114.