64 days later, search for missing Red Earth Cree Nation boy continues

A little five-year-old boy has been missing for more than two months, and searchers still haven’t found him.

Frank Young went missing from the Red Earth Cree Nation on April 18. In those 64 days, police and other search crews have scoured the area for him with no luck.

During a media conference Tuesday, Fabian Head — the chief of the Red Earth Cree Nation — said they’re still hoping to find him alive.

“We continue to perceive it as a rescue mission. At the request of the family, we are treating it as a rescue mission,” he said.

However, Sgt. Richard Tonge with the Carrot River RCMP wouldn’t say it in as clear terms.

“It’s an ongoing missing persons investigation. We’re doing everything we can to find Frank, and we’re continuing to follow up with any information we receive,” he said.

“Frank is a missing person, and we remain committed to locating him and bringing him home.”

Tonge also said searchers have changed tactics in the search for Young.

“We’ve used all of the resources and technology we have available to search for him,” Tonge said. “This includes extensive searches by foot, aircraft and boat, as well as our underwater recovery team in the river.

“The RCMP does not have further aerial or boat searches scheduled to take place at this time. The air and boat searches will now be conducted as new information comes in and must be investigated.”

Tonge also said the lower levels in the river will give an opportunity for another thorough search on foot.

“One of their goals will be to locate any items that may be associated to Frank,” he explained.

While the search is still ongoing, it’s a difficult time for the family and the community.

Head was asked to give some insight into how they’re feeling.

“I know that the family is still optimistic and very hopeful that Frank will be found soon, but each passing day amounts to obviously more emotional …” he began, his voice trailing off.

After a pause, Head finished his emotional statement.

“It becomes harder and harder as each day passes and we don’t find Frank,” he said.