Western Australia Police announced on December 16, 2025, that a body had been located during ongoing search operations, with officers expressing confidence that the remains belong to 25-year-old fly-in fly-out worker William Patrick Carter, who vanished ten days earlier. Formal identification processes continue, but the discovery marks the conclusion of an intensive effort that captured widespread attention across the state.

Carter, affectionately known as Bill to his family and friends, had built his career in the mining industry within the Pilbara region, a pathway chosen by many young Western Australians seeking opportunities in the resources sector. He had recently returned from an overseas holiday and was due to resume his regular shift schedule. On the morning of December 6, his mother, Jenny O’Byrne, drove him from their home in the Kelmscott area to Perth Airport’s Terminal 3. The pair stopped for breakfast at a nearby cafe, where O’Byrne took a selfie with her son, capturing what would become one of the last images shared publicly during the search. She dropped him off around 12:40 p.m., expecting him to catch a flight toward a work site near Karratha later that afternoon.

Airline records soon revealed that Carter never checked in or boarded the planned flight. Instead, about an hour and a half after arriving at the airport, he requested a taxi. The driver transported him to Trigg Beach in Perth’s northern suburbs. Surveillance footage and accounts from the area placed him near the surf lifesaving club on West Coast Drive around 2:40 p.m. He carried a small backpack and wore a black t-shirt, shorts, and white sneakers. Standing approximately 174 centimeters tall with a slim build, brown hair, and blue eyes, Carter was last seen walking north along the coastal path.

When he failed to arrive at his designated work site and made no contact with family or colleagues, alarm quickly spread. O’Byrne reported him missing, triggering an immediate police response. The case drew public interest as details emerged about his unexpected change of plans, shifting from airport travel to a beach location. Authorities released descriptions and images through media channels and official updates to encourage sightings or information.

Initial search focus centered on Trigg Beach and nearby northern suburbs, the last confirmed area. Officers carried out ground examinations, analyzed further surveillance from local businesses and residences, and spoke with potential witnesses. Appeals urged the community to provide any relevant details, with contact information widely distributed. Residents across Perth amplified these messages on social platforms, extending reach throughout the state.

As days passed without communication, the operation broadened. Police collaborated with supporting agencies to explore possible paths he might have followed, including coastal trails and adjacent parks. The resources industry expressed solidarity, recognizing the interconnected nature of fly-in fly-out networks. Colleagues in similar positions monitored developments closely, aware of the routine demands involving travel and extended absences from home.

O’Byrne shared statements during the search, portraying her son as a reserved yet personable young man who had encountered recent personal difficulties. She highlighted concerns for his wellbeing, adding urgency to the efforts. These comments brought attention to available support resources, contributing to ongoing discussions about challenges in demanding professions.

On December 16, authorities confirmed the location of a body amid continued activities. While specific site details remained limited to facilitate proper protocols, the circumstances corresponded with the established timeline and region. A spokesperson noted that formal identification awaited completion, yet belief centered on the remains being those of the 25-year-old reported missing on December 6. The case showed no indications of suspicious activity at that point, with preparations underway for a coronial report.

Coronial involvement follows standard procedure for unexpected deaths in Western Australia. This stage includes detailed forensic examination to confirm identity and establish cause and manner. Authorities requested respect for family privacy during this sensitive period.

The update shifted the active missing persons phase toward closure, though under somber conditions. Family received direct notification consistent with established guidelines. Assistance services were extended to those impacted, including established counseling options.

Carter’s background aligned with many entering the state’s resources field. He attended Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School and pursued studies at Murdoch University before moving into fly-in fly-out employment. This arrangement enables workers to maintain metropolitan or regional bases while accessing higher earnings through remote site rotations. Operations near Karratha support major iron ore and gas projects vital to the economy.

The sector sustains employment for thousands under comparable schedules, forming a key part of national exports. Discussions persist regarding lifestyle effects, such as separation from loved ones, irregular hours, and remote camp environments. Companies and unions have developed various programs over time, including on-site support and employee assistance access.

Carter’s situation drew notice to these topics, with appeals referencing wellbeing considerations. Relevant organizations continue to offer confidential help lines and workplace promotion of such services.

Community reactions remained respectful, with expressions of sympathy appearing through online channels and local connections. Areas involved in searches, including Trigg and Kelmscott, acknowledged the outcome. Police extended appreciation for public cooperation throughout the ten-day span, noting contributions to progress.

Procedures advance through routine channels. The coroner’s eventual report will deliver official determinations based on comprehensive evidence. Attention now centers on supporting Carter’s loved ones.

Western Australia frequently manages missing persons reports, often involving coastal or expansive terrains due to geography. Operations typically coordinate multiple entities, including volunteers and aerial resources. In populated beach zones, community input proves valuable, as demonstrated here.

Resources workplaces maintain travel tracking, such as manifests and arrival confirmations. Carter’s non-appearance triggered prompt employer alerts, illustrating system effectiveness.

As processes continue, the case highlights community and official collaboration in resolutions. State agencies address numerous similar reports yearly, resolving most through combined efforts.

Carter’s family, located in the Perth region, now handles private matters following notification. Support from networks and services will assist moving forward.

The resources workforce, characterized by strong bonds, tracked developments attentively. Many recognized familiar elements like airport transfers and flight expectations.

The discovery during searches concluded the primary phase, transitioning to formal review. Identification confirmation aligns with initial assessments, leading to coronial examination.

Police maintain professional oversight, adhering to all required steps. The December 16 statement conveyed available details appropriately.

Reflection often follows such cases on support frameworks across sectors and communities. Programs evolve to aid those facing pressures.

Carter, aged 25, exemplified peers entering mining through standard routes. His intended site return that day mirrored common patterns.

The mother-son selfie hours prior remains among final captured moments, circulated to assist recognition.

Trigg Beach, a frequented spot, anchored the timeline as the closing verified position. Surrounding facilities underwent thorough checks.

Official communications focused on verified information, discouraging conjecture while welcoming input.

The announcement followed protocol for discoveries, balancing disclosure with procedural requirements.

Coronial handling ensures independent, detailed assessment incorporating all elements.

Family considerations guide public statements in delicate situations.

Resolution via dedicated operations underscores resource commitment to missing persons matters.

Coastal and urban searches demand adapted approaches given state layout.

Employer cooperation regarding travel details supported inquiries fully.

Public contributions during the period added helpful perspectives.

Current non-suspicious status reflects preliminary evaluations, pending coronial outcomes.

Coronial reports compile forensic, medical, and contextual data for complete records.

Updates will follow official conclusions as appropriate.

Carter’s timeline—from airport to beach to discovery—spanned notable Perth sites.

Support options stay accessible for related circumstances.

The update ends active searching, directing toward established findings.