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Search continues for three-year-old Sparwood boy
Elk Valley RCMP officers and a small army of volunteers are continuing their search for a three-year-old boy who went missing yesterday morning, Sept. 7.
Search efforts continued overnight, including the assistance of military aircraft that facilitated with night vision capabilities. An Amber Alert, issued later in the day yesterday, remains in effect today, report the RCMP.
“Amber Alert is only one part of an extensive investigation,” stated Cpl. Dan Moskaluk. “Information that Kienan was missing was provided to the public and media, and as our search and investigation continued and we were able to meet the minimum requirements, the Amber Alert was issued as well.”
For information about the Amber Alert program and the requirements that must be met in order to issue an alert click here.
Search and Rescue teams, RCMP and police service dogs continue to search the ground and police helicopters search by air. The South East District Major Crime Unit and other specialized units are also assisting with this priority investigation.
“We sincerely thank everyone that is participating in the search effort, including all the volunteers,” says Cpl. Dan Moskaluk. “This entire community is working hard to find Kienan and bring him home to his family.”
Police reported late yesterday that they are also searching for a ‘person of interest’ who may be involved in Kienan’s disappearance.
RCMP are searching for 46-year-old Randall Hopley, who is described as Caucasian, having a birthmark along his hairline, brown hair with hazel eyes. They are also looking for a 1987 Toyota Camry, which is brown and has the B.C. licence plate 098 RAL.
Kienan is a red-haired Caucasian boy, last seen wearing a blue pair of Scooby Doo boxer shorts. It is also believed he was carrying several blankets.
Along with the extensive search efforts, social media sites are buzzing over the disappearance of the lad.
Sparwood resident, former mayor and current Kootenay-Columbia MP David Wilks posted on Facebook, “For all involved keep up the good work and keep your spirits up. The community of the Elk Valley has proven time and time again that they can overcome any adversity. Keep up the good work.”
Ian Cobb/e-KNOW
