Search Continues for Missing 5-Year-Old Boy, Darius Macdougall, in Alberta's Crowsnest Pass
Search and rescue crews are tirelessly searching for Darius Macdougall, a five-year-old boy who went missing on September 21 near Island Lake Campground in southwestern Alberta's Crowsnest Pass area. The search involves personnel from both Alberta and British Columbia, utilizing a range of resources including dogs, drones, and helicopters.
Ongoing Search Efforts
Adam Kennedy, provincial training manager for Search and Rescue Alberta, stated that 82 search and rescue members are involved in the ground search. Efforts are being made both day and night, with some helicopters equipped with thermal imaging technology. The RCMP is also assisting by parking emergency vehicles with sirens and lights activated along roads in the area, hoping to attract Darius's attention.
The terrain is described as a mix of thick forests, mountains, open areas, creeks, and rivers, including beaver dams and bogs. This complex environment requires searchers to work closely together to ensure thorough coverage. Experts have profiled the potential distances Darius could travel, but the search area is continuously expanding to account for the possibility that he may have moved beyond the initial zone.
Challenges and Considerations
A significant challenge in the search is that Darius is autistic, which may affect his ability to respond to searchers or call out for help. RCMP Cpl. Gina Slaney said that the family is understandably distraught and are being supported by family liaison officers and members of victims services. The family is assisting by performing tasks that do not interfere with the professional search efforts.
While authorities have requested that the public stay away from the search area to allow professionals to work effectively and safely, they have asked the public to remain vigilant and report any information regarding Darius’s possible location to the Crowsnest Pass RCMP detachment.
Hope and Optimism Amidst Difficult Conditions
Despite nighttime temperatures dipping into the low single digits, searchers remain optimistic about finding Darius. While the cold is a concern, Kennedy emphasized that statistics support the possibility of survival, and crews are still very hopeful for a positive outcome. The RCMP stated that all investigational avenues are being explored, though there is currently no indication of foul play.
Peter Alfred, a search manager with Southwest Alberta Search and Rescue, confirmed that waterways have been a key focus. "We have conducted shoreline searches of the waterways. That was done immediately yesterday. And our next step is in the water itself."
Family Support and Public Assistance
The family, who are from the Lethbridge and Fort Macleod area, have requested privacy at this time. They have asked authorities to speak on their behalf, as their main concern is the search for their child. The public is encouraged to provide support by respecting the search area and reporting any relevant information to the authorities.
The Salvation Army has been providing food to responders, and a nearby Bible camp has offered rest areas. Any further support for the crews on the ground is welcome.
Key Details of the Search
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Missing Child's Name | Darius Macdougall |
| Age | 5 years old |
| Location | Crowsnest Pass area, southwestern Alberta (near Island Lake Campground) |
| Date Missing | September 21 |
| Agencies Involved | Alberta RCMP, Search and Rescue Alberta, British Columbia Search and Rescue |
| Contact Information | Crowsnest Pass RCMP detachment at 403-562-2866 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 |
