Body of Missing Teen Lily Hooper Found After Extensive Search
Miscommunication Leads to Premature Reports of Survival, Prompting Apologies from Officials
Callum Smith
The body of a woman, believed to be 18-year-old Lily Hooper, was discovered in Australian bushland.
A multi-agency search, involving NSW Police Force units, the Rural Fire Service, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, and the Australian Defence Force, had been underway. Over 100 ADF personnel joined the operation alongside various emergency services and volunteers; poor weather hampered search efforts over the weekend.
Police initially reported to media, the New South Wales premier, and Hooper's parents that she had been found alive. This incorrect report circulated around midday on Thursday, with Premier Chris Minns publicly announcing the 'fantastic news'.
Local media also claimed Lily Hooper was found alive. Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon apologized for the additional trauma and embarrassment caused by the misinformation.
It seems as if the earlier advice was wrong.
Premier Chris Minns stated he received incorrect advice and offered his deepest condolences to the family, confirming, "It seems as if the earlier advice was wrong." Minns later stated, "Lily’s body has been found. She’d been found deceased. This is obviously devastating, and I’m profoundly sad for her family and for all those concerned. I apologise."
Police Assistant Commissioner Joseph Cassar stated that communication challenges in dense terrain and via handheld radios contributed to the confusion. Assistant Commissioner Cassar also stated there was a 'short window' between SES volunteers finding Lily Hooper and confirming she was deceased.
SES Assistant Commissioner Colin Malone confirmed that SES volunteers were from a highly trained bush search and rescue team. The SES Commissioner explained that 'code words' are often used in search and rescue to prevent sensitive information from being overheard.
Angus Taylor, the opposition leader, paid tribute to Hooper and acknowledged the miscommunication. Michelle Buckley has hired law firm Slater and Gordon to investigate the misidentification, though police claim the body was yet to be formally identified.
Lily's body is expected to be recovered on foot due to difficult terrain; air extraction is also reportedly challenging. A report will be prepared for the coroner.
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