Search Continues for Missing 6-Year-Old Darius Macdougall in Southern Alberta
The search for Darius Macdougall, a six-year-old boy from Lethbridge, Alberta, who went missing on September 21st, continues into its second week. The family has released a statement vowing not to rest until he is found, as hundreds of search and rescue personnel comb through the challenging terrain of the Crowsnest Pass area.
Community Support and Ongoing Search Efforts
The family expressed immense gratitude to the dedicated searchers from Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan, as well as the community for providing strength and hope during this difficult time. They remain steadfast in their commitment to bringing Darius home. Crews are focusing on "higher probability" areas that have already been searched, and ground crews are following up on leads from the public.
Challenges Posed by Autism
The search is complicated by the fact that Darius has autism. Searchers note that this may affect his ability to respond when he sees or hears them calling his name. This factor has been a significant consideration in search strategies. The initial search involved up to 200 searchers, both on the ground and in the air, but no signs of the boy have been found.
Mother's Plea and Diminishing Survival Chances
Maegan Bernicky, Darius's mother, has made an emotional plea for information. "I’m pleading with my entire being," she told Bridge City News. "If anyone knows or has seen anything, tell the police." While RCMP initially maintained optimism, they stated on Sunday that his chances of survival were estimated at less than five per cent. Temperatures in the search area have dropped to low single digits overnight.
Search Area Conditions and Investigation Details
RCMP Cpl. Gina Slaney stated that crews are concentrating on areas with a higher likelihood of success and pursuing tips from the public. The terrain is described as mountainous, with significant elevation changes, streams, and deadfall. Despite the challenges and dwindling survival chances, the search efforts continue. RCMP have stated that there is no indication of foul play and no decision has been made to scale back the search.
Resources Available for Support
Given the low probability of Darius surviving, Adam Kennedy from Alberta Search and Rescue has highlighted that support is available for those who need it.
