Gach Top, 26, went missing in the Australian outback on July 28, but loved ones never gave up hope, even after police suspended their search

Australia’s Northern Territory Police Force shared this photo related to the search for Gach Top, who went missing since July 28, 2025.Credit : Northern Territory Police

A man who was missing for a week in the Australian outback was found alive — and told first responders that he survived by drinking water from discarded bottles.

Northern Territory Police Force first announced in a news release that Gach Top, 26, was last seen leaving his residence in Alice Springs on July 28 at 3:30 p.m. local time.

About two hours later, Top spoke with his family by phone, but he never showed up for work that evening.

His car, a red Mazda CX5, was found the following near John Flynn’s Grave Historical Reserve, which is located about 4 miles outside of Alice Springs.

Australia’s Northern Territory Police Force shared this photo related to the search for Gach Top, who went missing since July 28, 2025.Northern Territory Police

The search for Top involved over 50 personnel, including local police units and partner agencies, and employed ATVs, drones, and helicopter support, police said in an update on July 31.

Despite extensive efforts, Search Coordinator Acting Sgt. Chris Grotherr said that “forecasted sub-zero overnight temperatures over the coming days are increasing our concerns for Gach’s welfare.”

On Saturday, Aug. 2, police announced they had suspended the search for Top after five days and the case was handed over to the Northern Territory Police Southern Crime Division for additional investigation.

Throughout the search, authorities had appealed to the public to contact them if they may have spotted Top in the vicinity or provide information that would lead to his whereabouts.

Meanwhile, Top’s family and community members continued their search for the 26-year-old man in the outback, reported Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), 9News and The Age.

Australia’s Northern Territory Police Force shared this photo related to the search for Gach Top, who went missing since July 28, 2025.Northern Territory Police

On Monday, Aug. 4, Top was found alive in the vicinity of Jay Creek outstation, about 18 miles west of Alice Springs.

“He was wrapped in a blanket and was exhausted,” Chuol Yat of the African Association of Central Australia told The Age.

“The family, including the community, are overjoyed because many of us felt that this young man was not dead.

He was found alive, and everybody was so happy.”

Andrew Thomas, a director with St. John Ambulance NT, said Top appeared dazed and confused after being lost in the bush, according to 9News.

Top was then treated for dehydration and taken to hospital in Alice Springs.

“He told responders he had survived by drinking water from discarded bottles found along the roadside,” Thomas said.

Nyawuor Kong, Top’s stepmother, told ABC that her family was celebrating the news of their loved one, who became a father in July.

“My eldest son was devastated, because he is close to his elder brother Gach, but when he heard the news that Gach is fine, he is smiling again.,” Kong said. “Our family are happy again.”

She also expressed gratitude to those who assisted in the search of Top.

Northern Territory Police Force confirmed Top’s return in an update on Aug 4.

“He was located safe in the vicinity of Jay Creek earlier this evening and has been conveyed to hospital for assessment,” they wrote.

“Police would like to thank members of the public for their assistance.”