Missing teen hiker found dead in Australian bush after eight‑day search
Police have confirmed the body of 18‑year‑old Lily Hooper, who disappeared during a walk on 12 August through the Nattai National Park, was found in the Southern Highlands.
The teenager left her home late on Tuesday night and failed to return after 10 pm. Her car was later discovered at the lower end of a steep trail in the park.
The body was located at approximately 11:30 local time on Thursday, as confirmed by police and local media. The identity of the victim was still pending formal confirmation at the time of this report.
In the initial days after the disappearance, NSW Premier Chris Minns stated that the girl had been found alive. He later clarified, stating that “Lily’s body has been found” and that she is deceased, apologising for the confusion.
The eight‑day search was a coordinated effort involving multiple NSW Police units, including PolAir, the Rescue Unit, the Trail Bike Unit, the Mounted Unit and the Dog Unit. Additional support came from the Rural Fire Service, the National Parks and Wildlife Service and close to 100 members of the Australian Defence Force.
Police are now conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the disappearance and subsequent death, with families and officials consoling in a time of tragedy. The case has sparked renewed discussions about safety in remote bush areas and the need for robust search protocols.
