Oak Park Station, South Australia – Police have returned to the remote sheep station where four-year-old Gus Lamont disappeared in September 2025, continuing the search for evidence in a case that has gripped the nation. The renewed effort comes as a 75-year-old man from Grampus has been arrested on unrelated firearm offences, adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing investigation into the missing child. The search for Gus Lamont, a case that began as a missing person inquiry, is now being treated as a major crime, according to authorities.
Task Force Horizon detectives began the latest search on Monday, February 16, 2026, and anticipate remaining at Oak Park Station for at least the next two days, seeking any clues that might shed light on Gus’s disappearance. The investigation has taken a troubling turn in recent weeks, with police revealing they no longer believe Gus will be found alive. This grim assessment followed what authorities described as “discrepancies” and “inconsistencies” in information provided by some family members, leading to a shift in the focus of the inquiry.
While the 75-year-old man’s arrest is not directly linked to Gus’s disappearance, it stems from a previous search conducted at Oak Park Station. South Australia Police confirmed the firearm charges are separate from the investigation into the missing boy and a prior incident involving media personnel at the property. According to reports, a member of Gus’s family reportedly brandished a firearm at a reporter in October, claiming it was to dispatch a snake. The Guardian has more on this incident.
Suspect Identified, Cooperation Withdrawn
Detective Superintendent Darren Fielke revealed earlier this month that investigators had identified a suspect believed to be known to Gus. However, that individual has since withdrawn their cooperation with police and is now considered a person of interest in the disappearance. “The person who has withdrawn their co-operation is now considered a suspect in the disappearance of Gus,” Superintendent Fielke stated. He emphasized, however, that Gus’s parents are not considered suspects in the case.
The lack of specific details surrounding the suspect and the reasons for their withdrawn cooperation have fueled speculation and concern. Superintendent Fielke acknowledged the challenges this presents, stating, “When we have a suspect in an investigation, it can… have its own challenges, so we’re working through those.”
Legal Representation for Grandparents
The evolving nature of the investigation has prompted Gus’s grandparents to seek legal counsel. Josie Murray has retained criminal lawyer Andrew Ey, while Shannon Murray is being represented by defence lawyer Casey Isaacs. The legal teams confirmed their representation in a statement released on February 6, expressing the family’s devastation over the recent developments. “We are absolutely devastated by the media release of Sapol Major Crime,” the statement read. “The family has co-operated fully with the investigation and want nothing more than to identify Gus and reunite him with his mum and dad.”
It is not unusual for individuals to seek legal advice when they become involved in a police investigation, even as witnesses. Authorities have clarified that there is currently no indication that either Josie or Shannon Murray were involved in Gus’s disappearance.
Timeline of Events
Gus Lamont went missing on September 27, 2025, from Oak Park Station, sparking a large-scale search effort across South Australia. The search involved police, emergency services, and volunteers, but yielded no results. The investigation has since focused on gathering information from family members and individuals connected to the property. The arrest of the 75-year-old man on firearm charges occurred on Monday, February 16, 2026, coinciding with the renewed search of Oak Park Station. SAPOL’s Task Force Horizon update provides further details on the ongoing investigation.
The case has drawn significant media attention, and the community remains deeply concerned for Gus’s well-being. The investigation continues, with police urging anyone with information to come forward. The focus remains on uncovering the truth behind Gus’s disappearance and bringing closure to his family.
Authorities have not released details regarding the specific firearms charges against the 75-year-old man, but confirmed they are unrelated to the disappearance of Gus Lamont. He has been bailed to appear at the Peterborough magistrates court in May.
The investigation into the disappearance of Gus Lamont remains active and ongoing. Police are expected to return to the area on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, to continue their inquiries. Anyone with information is urged to contact the South Australia Police.
If you have been affected by the disappearance of Gus Lamont or are experiencing emotional distress, resources are available. You can reach Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.
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