A six-year-old girl was discovered dead four hours after she was reported missing in Australia.
Airlie Montgomery was last observed wearing a pink jumpsuit and without shoes around 2 p.m. local time on Sunday, March 16, near the Grotto Walk in North Nowra, New South Wales, located approximately 104 miles southwest of Sydney.
“When she could not be located or contacted, officers attached to South Coast Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into her whereabouts,” New South Wales police stated, according to local outlet news.com.au, which reported that Airlie disappeared near her home.
Authorities reported locating a body in the North Nowra bushland around 6 p.m., concluding an extensive search.
The search for Airlie involved community members and helicopters, with close to 100 local residents participating in the effort to locate the young girl.
Authorities believe her death was accidental after she fell from a height. Police do not consider her death suspicious or criminal.
The body was found in the Shoalhaven River, beneath the Grotto Walk, a popular trail known for its cliff-top views. The location was about 880 yards from her family residence.
Airlie was non-verbal and had medical conditions, raising concerns for her safety when she initially went missing.
Nowra, New South Wales, is experiencing deep sorrow following Airlie’s death, said Mayor Patricia White. She described the town’s grief as profound, calling Airlie’s passing a significant loss.
The local community has shown an outpouring of grief. At the Grotto Reserve entrance, where Airlie was found, flowers were placed as a memorial. The community had mobilized earlier to aid in the search for the missing child.
Airlie attended North Nowra Public School, and the NSW Department of Education expressed deep sadness over the incident. The department provided support services to students and staff affected by the tragedy.
Airlie’s parents, Katie Amess and Corey Montgomery, are reportedly “absolutely devastated” by the loss of their daughter.
A fundraiser was established on behalf of the family. The organizer described Airlie as a “beautiful little girl” who will be deeply missed.
