Walhalla, Victoria: Missing teenager William located safe after disappearance during camping trip
A teenager who disappeared while camping six days ago has been found and reunited with his family. Here is the latest.
A teenager who disappeared while camping six days ago has been found and reunited with his family.
William, 17, whose surname has not been shared by police, was reported missing after straying from his camp near Walhalla, 185km east of Melbourne, in Victoria’s alpine region last Friday.
The teen, also known as Will, was dropped off by his mother for the weekend to camp with his step-brother.
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When he failed to return shortly after, his stepbrother searched the area but found no trace of the teen.
His phone, food, and water had been left behind at the camp.
He was last seen near Stoney Creek Road, between Cowwarr and Walhalla, on November 6 about 4pm.
Fears grew for the missing boy when it was revealed that he was wearing minimal clothing while temperatures plunged below zero.
The ABC reported that the teenager was located on Thursday morning and reunited with his family.
While his condition has not been formally revealed, his mother Elizabeth Barkley told the outlet he had “only a few scratches” and was otherwise fit and healthy.
“He’s doing fine, everything seems to be fine — he’s in perfect health,” she said.
“He just stayed in one spot and waited to be rescued and I’m just over the moon he’s alive.”
Ms Barkley said she was “over the moon”.
Victoria Police have been contacted for comment.
- With AAP
More to come...
