Concern is rising as search crews continue looking for a missing boy from Prince George.
Yesterday (March 25), Mounties released a statement asking for the public's help in finding Luke, whom investigators say was last believed to be travelling south on Highway 97.
Luke has not been seen since 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday (March 24) and, according to police, he may not comprehend conversation at his own age level.
RCMP have since corrected Luke's age to 12 years old.
Here is the latest update from RCMP on Luke, the 12-year-old, who is missing from Prince George. Police are concerned he may have attempted to hitch hike w/ stranger. Also concerned of cold temperatures at night. #cityofpg #missing @PGMatters pic.twitter.com/nKSkCJhzdv
— Jess Balzer (@jessicajbalzer) March 26, 2021
In the latest update this afternoon (March 26), RCMP say they are now concerned he may have attempted to hitchhike with a stranger and are concerned for his safety.
Prince George RCMP spokesperson Cst. Jennifer Cooper says Luke could also still be in the area.
"There is also the very real possibility that he is still within the area where Search and Rescue is concentrating their efforts," she explained.
"Our concern is that there would be exposure to the cold overnight, as temperatures fell to -1 degrees Celsius during the last two days."
There is currently a team of more than 35 volunteers currently helping with the search.
Volunteers have come from 100 Mile House, Quesnel, Wiliams Lake, Vanderhoof, Mackenzie, Fort St. James and Houston.
Numerous police and search and rescue resources have also been brought in including an RCMP helicopter, Air 3 and a police dog is also available to help search efforts.
“Crews are working with extremely hilly and deep terrain in some areas and clear cuts or dense brush in other places," Search and Rescue Coordinator Dave Merritt said in a release.
"There is everything from thigh-deep snow on an adult to bare ground. The numerous creeks and rivers in the region are also factors we are dealing with. Search and Rescue crews are using ATVs, side-by-sides and even horses to increase their search area."
A last name for Luke has not been provided by RCMP at this time, nor a mode of transportation.
He's described as:
- White
- 4'0"
- Slim build
- Light brown/blond, curly hair
- Hazel eyes
- Last seen wearing:
- Green and yellow coat with noticable duct tape
- Black hoodie
- Black pants
- Possibly carrying a ball of twine attached to his belt
- May have a 'P.J. Masks' backpack with extra clothes inside
Anyone with more information on 'Luke' or his whereabouts is asked to call their local police detachment or Prince George RCMP at 250-561-3300.
