A police helicopter crew found 17-year-old William asleep in a dry riverbed in Australia after he had been missing for nearly a week. (Foto: Instagram)
William, a 17-year-old who disappeared in a densely wooded area of Australia, was found alive on the morning of Thursday, Nov. 12, Australian time, after nearly a week. He was wearing only shorts and boots when a police helicopter spotted him asleep in the dry bed of a river.
William had been camping with a friend when he went to retrieve more equipment and did not return. His phone and food were left behind. He went missing on Friday, Nov. 6, and search efforts began soon afterward, with help from tracking dogs.
The helicopter crew lowered themselves by cable to reach and rescue him. He was taken to a hospital, where he is recovering. Police said he was exhausted and unable to walk, with cuts on his legs and severe sunburn on his upper body and face.
Investigators said William had wandered during the first days he was missing before falling down a steep embankment. By then exhausted, he stayed in the riverbed, where the helicopter crew found him. His mother, Elizabeth Barkley, told ABC she was extremely glad he was alive and said he had stayed in one place waiting to be rescued.
Acting Inspector Jason Benbow said William was talking, smiling and telling rescuers what had happened. He was also hugging his mother, eating a doughnut and drinking water, Benbow said.
