Teen with autism rescued after six days missing in eastern Australian woods

A 17-year-old boy with autism who vanished while camping near the former gold-mining town of Walhalla, east of Melbourne, was rescued Thursday after a six-day search. Police said the teenager, identified only as William, was discovered by a helicopter crew asleep on a flat rock beside a creek, wearing shorts, boots and towels used as blankets. He was airlifted to safety and later taken to a hospital for health monitoring.

Police statements described William as being in good spirits and largely in good health despite being shirtless and sunburned. Acting Police Inspector Jason Benbow said William had trekked over steep terrain for several days before becoming trapped near the creek, about two kilometres from his campsite. "He woke up to the sound of the helicopter, gave them a thumbs up and they winched him to safety," Benbow told reporters.

Elizabeth, William's mother, expressed relief at his safe return, adding that she plans to keep him close to home. The search operation involved more than 100 emergency-service personnel and volunteers.

William has Level 2 autism, which according to Australian advocacy group Autism360 requires substantial support and a reliance on routine. Disruption of these routines can cause significant distress. The mild spring weather and limited rainfall in the alpine region were noted as factors during the search.