Alberta Missing Child Update: Search Continues for Six-Year-Old Darius Macdougall

–Alberta

CROWSNEST PASS, ALBERTA – The search for six-year-old Darius Macdougall from Lethbridge, Alta., has entered its second week after the boy went missing in the Crowsnest Pass area on September 21.

Darius was last seen when he went for a walk with six young relatives while the family was camping. He did not return, sparking a massive search operation involving RCMP, specialized rescue teams, and community volunteers.

Chances of Survival Drop Below 5%

According to RCMP, the chances of finding Darius alive have now fallen to less than five percent due to difficult conditions and dropping overnight temperatures. Despite this, search crews remain committed to bringing the boy home.

Special Search Measures

Authorities noted that Darius is autistic and, while verbal, may not respond to his name. Searchers have been using special techniques such as playing his favourite song to try to draw him out, while avoiding loud noises that might scare him.

Terrain Challenges

The search area has been described as mountainous and rugged, with steep elevation changes, streams, and heavy deadfall. Conditions have been made more difficult by cold nights, with temperatures dipping into the low single digits.

Community Hope

Cpl. Gina Slaney of the RCMP stated that crews are revisiting “higher probability” areas and following up on tips from the public. While the situation remains dire, hope continues among searchers and family members.

The RCMP is expected to provide a media briefing at noon Wednesday with further updates on the case.

🙏 Thoughts and prayers remain with Darius, his family, and everyone involved in the search effort.