Helicopters are buzzing through the clear blue sky in southern Alberta as the search for five-year-old Darius Macdougall enters its fourth day. Adam Kennedy from Search and Rescue Alberta announced on Wednesday that they are extending the search area from three kilometers to 6.6 kilometers due to challenging terrain, including dense deadfall and rocky areas.
Approximately 100 individuals are involved in the ground search and rescue operations. Despite the difficult conditions, Kennedy mentioned that they are optimistic about finding Macdougall alive, based on consultations with wilderness survivability experts.
Darius Macdougall, who is autistic, went missing on Sunday during a walk with six family members near the Alberta-B.C. border. Concerns arise as Macdougall may not respond well to calls for his name due to his condition. The entrance to the campground where he disappeared has been closed off to the public.
Search teams are working in shifts, with some resting at a nearby bible camp. The search efforts include ground teams, a RCMP helicopter, search and rescue dogs, and drones. Search crews are also inspecting bodies of water within the search radius.
Weather conditions have been favorable for the search, with last night’s temperature at approximately 11°C. The RCMP has stated that foul play is not suspected, but they are examining all possible scenarios surrounding Macdougall’s disappearance.