In brief
- Lily Hooper, 18, went out for a hike in the NSW Southern Highlands more than a week ago.
- She left her home in Sydney's south-west on the morning of 12 August. Police said her body was found today.
A body has been found in the NSW Southern Highlands following an eight-day search for Sydney teenager Lily Hooper.
The 18-year-old left her home in Oakdale, in Sydney's south-west, at around 8am on 12 August to hike in the Nattai National Park. She was reported missing when she hadn't returned home by 10pm.
On Thursday 20 August, NSW Police said the body of a woman had been located in bushland at around 11.30am.
"While yet to be formally identified, the body is believed to be that of the 18-year-old woman," police said.
Police had found Hooper's car parked near the start of the challenging Bonnum Pic Walking Trail last Wednesday.
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Hundreds of emergency services personnel have been involved in the search, including close to 100 members of the Australian Defence Force who joined the effort on Wednesday.
Media outlets had earlier reported that she was found alive.
NSW premier shares 'terrible news' from parliament
In parliament, NSW Premier Chris Minns was informed during budget estimates that Hooper had been found, and initially announced that she had been found alive, the ABC reported.
He later apologised, saying he had "terrible news".
"I apologise to the committee, but it seems as if the early advice was wrong," he said.
"This is obviously devastating and I'm just profoundly sad for her family and all those concerned."
On Tuesday, Hooper's family had issued a statement via NSW Police saying they were "absolutely devastated that our beloved daughter Lily is missing".
"We would like to thank all the emergency services and volunteers for their support and continued commitment to the search, not only during the day but throughout the night," the statement said.
"We desperately want to bring Lily home safe and we ask as the search continues, to keep our family and Lily in your thoughts.
"We also ask for privacy and understanding as our family navigates this unimaginable situation."
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