First photo of happy Cleo Smith after being rescued from locked house
Western Australian police have released the first picture of four-year-old Cleo Smith, who was found alive on Wednesday morning after missing for 18 days.
An image of Cleo sitting smiling in a hospital bed holding an ice block and waving at the camera was posted to the WA Police Facebook page, simply captioned: "The miracle we all hoped for."
Cleo was found locked inside a house less than 3km from her family's home in Carnarvon.
A 36-year-old man remains in custody and is assisting police with their enquiries. He has not been charged.
Family, community thrilled by Cleo's rescue
On Wednesday morning, Cleo's mother Ellie Smith shared a post to Instagram relating to the news of her daughter being found safe.
"Our family is whole again," Ms Smith wrote.
“This means everything to everybody in this town,” Carnarvon resident Anthony Nayar told Yahoo News.
“It's the best news, everyone is really relieved. It’s all anyone is talking about.”
Carnarvon Shire President Eddie Smith said in a statement he had “never been prouder” of the close-knit community he represents.
"This is a joyous day," the statement read.
"Cleo is back home safely with her family, our hopes and prayers have been answered.
"To the Carnarvon community — you have shown what community is all about.
Cleo Smith: Man in custody ‘seen buying nappies at Woolworths’
Minutes from home: The suburban house where Cleo was found locked up
"You have supported Ellie and Jake, you have supported the police, you have taken every measure to help bring about this result.
"I have never been prouder to be the Shire President of Carnarvon."
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