Search for Missing Boy, Darius Macdougall, Continues in Alberta
Authorities in Alberta are maintaining a full-scale search and rescue mission for six-year-old Darius Macdougall, who went missing on Sunday, September 21, 2025, near the Island Lake Provincial Recreation Area. Despite the passage of several days, search teams are operating under the assumption that Darius is still alive.
Extensive Search Efforts
Adam Kennedy, from Search and Rescue Alberta (SAR), stated that approximately 225 personnel are actively involved in scouring the terrain for any signs of Darius Macdougall. This includes 128 SAR volunteers from Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan. Technological tools, including drones with infrared cameras and new drone analysis software, are being utilized to aid in the search. Alberta Emergency Health Services is providing medical care for all personnel on scene.
- Search dogs are being deployed to assist in tracking.
- A helicopter is providing aerial support.
- Drones equipped with infrared cameras are being used to scan the terrain.
"Not Scaling Back"
RCMP Cpl. Gina Slaney emphasized that there are "no plans to scale back" the search efforts. RCMP TSG officers are conducting a shoulder-to-shoulder search, trained to find even the smallest piece of evidence. The search area currently encompasses a four-kilometer radius from where Darius Macdougall was last seen, with some trail searches extending up to eight kilometers. The efforts are supported by RCMP air services and police dog services.
"I want to stress that we are not scaling back the search. Our TSG officers are now on the ground doing a shoulder-to-shoulder search," - RCMP Cpl. Gina Slaney
Adapting Search Strategies for Autism
Recognizing that Darius Macdougall is autistic, searchers are adapting their strategies. They are avoiding loud noises and, where appropriate, playing music he likes. Bright lights are avoided during overnight searches to prevent startling him. These adaptations are intended to increase the chances of a positive outcome.
Community Support and Ongoing Investigation
While expressing gratitude for public interest, SAR is requesting that the public leave search efforts to the trained professionals on scene. However, local communities are mobilizing to provide support to the family and search teams. RCMP are working with the municipality of Crowsnest Pass to facilitate community support, including the collection of non-perishable food items. All tips received by the RCMP are being actively investigated as the search continues around the clock.
The community is asked to respect that untrained volunteers will not be used to add to the search effort.
