Authorities in Alberta are continuing the search for six-year-old Darius Macdougall, who went missing a week ago while walking with family members in the Crowsnest Pass in southwest Alberta. RCMP officials warned that survivability at this stage is now less than five per cent due to the terrain, exposure, and time elapsed since his disappearance.
Adjusting Search Tactics
During a press conference, RCMP Cpl. Gina Slaney said search strategies are evolving to reflect the current conditions. Adam Kennedy of Search and Rescue Alberta (SARA) added that infrared technology and other air assets will be deployed differently to improve coverage.
Around 200 personnel are actively searching, including roughly 100 SAR volunteers and specialized surface and underwater teams. Officers are re-checking previously searched areas to locate any new clues.
Tactical Support and Family Assistance
Sixty Tactical Support Group officers, specially trained for searches of this type, have joined the effort to identify small pieces of evidence. RCMP officials emphasized that these teams are working closely to maximize coverage and locate Darius.
The boy’s family, from Lethbridge, is receiving continuous support from Victim Family Liaison officers, who provide updates and ensure their basic needs are met during this challenging time.
Public Support and Safety
The Municipality of Crowsnest Pass has opened a public information centre at the Crows Nest Sports Complex in Coleman, allowing residents to provide tips and review maps of the area to assist in the search.
RCMP have urged the public to avoid the area, citing dangerous terrain and the risk of diverting search resources. Recreational drones are also prohibited, as the airspace is actively being used by search helicopters, drones, and planes.
Reminder of Risks
The recent rescue of an injured hiker in the area highlights the dangers involved. The hiker, who required a longline extraction, is expected to make a full recovery. RCMP stressed that no search resources were diverted from Darius’s search during this rescue.
Authorities continue to appeal for patience, assistance, and vigilance as the search for Darius Macdougall moves forward in the Crowsnest Pass.
