Missing teenager found alive in Australian forest after six days

A 17-year-old boy, identified only as William, has been rescued alive after spending six days lost in a dense forest in the Australian state of Victoria. The teenager disappeared on Friday, November 6, 2026, while on a camping trip with a friend near the area of Walhalla, approximately 180 kilometers east of Melbourne. Authorities report that he became separated from his friend while attempting to retrieve additional equipment and was unable to find his way back.

The search operation involved police, rescue dogs, divers, and helicopters. William, who has autism and lacked prior camping experience, was discovered on the morning of November 12 by a police helicopter. Despite surviving cold nighttime temperatures with only shorts and work boots, he was found in relatively good condition, having sustained only minor scratches. He reportedly survived by drinking water from a stream and eating chips.

Following his rescue, William was airlifted to safety and received immediate medical attention. He is currently under hospital observation. Video footage of the rescue shows the teenager signaling his relief to the crew upon being located, bringing a successful end to a search effort that deeply concerned local authorities and his family.