An extensive search involving New South Wales police, emergency crews and Australian Defence Force personnel was launched. On Thursday, rescuers located her body despite the rough terrain, and her car was found at the start of a 16‑km walking track that is meant for experienced hikers.

Early on, police announced that Hooper had been found alive. The statement was later withdrawn, and officials said a possible miscommunication over a police code may have caused the error. Both New South Wales Premier Chris Minns and Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon publicly apologized for the mistaken report and the additional trauma it caused the family.

The incident shows how a single misunderstanding of a code can turn a tragic search into a public misinformation crisis. It highlights the need for precise information handling and double‑checking messages before they are released, especially in emergency situations.