Search for evidence into disappearance of four-year-old renewed by police

Authorities have said an update will be provided as the investigation continues.

Gus’s disappearance is being treated as a major crime by South Australian police

South Australian police have repeatedly said Gus’ parents are not considered suspects in his disappearance

In February, police confirmed that a person with close ties to the household, who is not one of Gus’ parents, had spoken to detectives but subsequently “withdrew cooperation” and has since been identified as a suspect.

During the investigation, police charged his 75-year-old grandparent, Josie Murray, with firearms offences, but insisted the charges were not related to the four-year-old’s disappearance.

Josie Murray and Gus’ other grandparent, Shannon Murray, released a statement through their lawyers saying they were “absolutely devastated” by the SA Police statement on February 6.

“We are absolutely devastated by the media reporting on SAPOL Major Crime. The family has fully cooperated with the investigation and would like nothing more than to find Gus and reunite him with his father and mother,” the statement said.

The lawyers have also indicated that they will make no further comments.

There is no indication that Josie or Shannon Murray are involved in Gus’s disappearance, and it is not unusual for someone involved in an investigation to seek legal advice.

Gus was last seen on September 27 around 5pm on a sand hill near Oak Park Station.

After his disappearance, a large-scale ground and aerial search of the building and surrounding area was launched

No evidence of Gus has been found, despite extensive searches of the property. Chief Inspector Darren Fielke said this was the “largest and most intensive” search for missing persons ever conducted by SA Police.

The most recent search was called off in March after police were unable to find any new evidence, despite heavy rainfall in the area.

The multi-agency search for the missing toddler has expanded across more than 700 square kilometers with the help of 80 Australian Defense Force soldiers, drones, mounted officers and aircraft.

More than 160 South Australian police officers have also been deployed and authorities have received more than 150 tips about the missing boy since February.

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