The grandmothers of missing four-year-old Gus Lamont have released a statement through their lawyers, expressing devastation after South Australia Police (SAPOL) declared his disappearance a major crime. Gus vanished from his family's 60,000-hectare sheep station, Oak Park Station, about 300km inland from Adelaide, in September last year. He was last seen playing outside the homestead at 5pm on 27 September.
Initially believed to have wandered off, a massive search ensued, covering nearly 100 sq km on the ground and over 700 sq km by air. After a week, the mission shifted from rescue to recovery. Police now suspect someone living at the station was involved, citing inconsistencies in information from family members. A person who had cooperated has withdrawn support and is considered a suspect.
Lawyers Andrew Ey and Casey Isaacs, representing grandmothers Josie Murray and Shannon Murray respectively, issued a joint statement on Friday. It read: 'We are absolutely devastated by the media release of SAPOL Major Crime. The family has cooperated fully with the investigation and want nothing more than to find Gus and reunite him with his mum and dad.'
Detective Superintendent Darren Fielke stated on Thursday that police believe Gus did not wander off or was abducted. He noted 'a number of inconsistencies and discrepancies' in information from family members. Police seized a vehicle, a motorbike, and electronic devices in mid-January.
When Gus first disappeared, a frantic search involved helicopters, drones, divers, trail bikes, dogs, tactical units, Australian Defence Force personnel, mounted police, and volunteers. Despite extensive efforts, Gus has not been found. The family previously released a statement describing their heartbreak and hope for his safe return.
