Police announced on 3 October that the search for four‑year‑old Gus, who vanished on 27 September near Yunta, is concluding after no trace has been found, and parents have been told the child may have already perished.
Searches Nearing an End
On Friday, 3 October, the Queensland Police Service tightened the search area for Gus, a four‑year‑old who disappeared in the 24‑mile radius south of Yunta. Deputy Commissioner Ian Parrott explained that no footprint traces, hat, or clothing that could indicate a direction had been located. Police asserted they had exhausted all possible methods to locate the child.
Police Request No Public Speculation
Officer Peter Williams told ABC Radio Adelaide that the police will only accept calls from those with credible information that could aid the investigation, explicitly stating that they are not interested in public opinions. Lines to the police have been flooded since the photo of Gus was released on Thursday.
Details of Gus’ Disappearance
Gus vanished on Saturday 27 September while playing outside his grandparents’ home. The only evidence found was a small footprint 500 meters from the building. Searches involved police, Australian Defence Force personnel, drones, tracking dogs, and volunteer helicopters.
Scale of the Search
Deputy Commissioner Parrott described the operation as one of the largest and most intensive missing‑person searches in recent South Australian history. No new leads have emerged, and authorities warn that the child’s age and the rough terrain decrease the likelihood of survival.
