(UPDATE: Sept. 22 @ 8:15 pm) – It is the news everyone hoped to hear, the missing 6-year-old BC girl with autism has been found after a massive search for her in a rural part of the province.
Oaklynn Schweder had been missing since Thursday evening and was located just after 6 pm on Sunday, according to local police.
The RCMP added that she was found in a forested area previously searched between her residence and the band office in Southside, BC.
Searchers believe she was likely moving around during the time she was missing.
“This is the outcome that we all hoped for, she was missing for multiple days, but everyone searching remained dedicated to bringing her home safely,” said Burns Lake RCMP Detachment Commander, S/Sgt. Joshua Smith.
“We are thankful for the support of all our partner agencies and volunteers who worked day and night to achieve this outcome."
(UPDATE: Sept. 21 @ 11:30 am) – Despite ongoing efforts and a significant amount of resources, the search for a missing 6-year-old girl with autism in northern BC has so far been unsuccessful.
“We are thankful for the outpouring of support including a large number of volunteers, who have all come together with the common goal of bringing Oaklynn (Schweder) home safely,” said Burns Lake RCMP Detachment Commander, S/Sgt. Josh Smith.
“Locating Oaklynn remains our top priority. We continue to liaise with Oaklynn’s family to ensure they are supported and kept apprised.”
Among those searching are members of the RCMP, local search and rescue, BC Wildfire Service, volunteers and Canadian Rangers have been called out.
Those searching have utilized helicopters, Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) and police service dogs.
The Skin Tyee Band is assisting in coordinating volunteers while providing food and shelter to those helping.
“Local support and volunteers are being asked to carpool as space is limited and congestion could hinder current search and relief efforts,” added the RCMP release.
“Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Oaklynn is urged to contact Burns Lake RCMP at 250-692-7171. If you locate Oaklynn call the police immediately or alert search teams and stay with her until help arrives.”
(Original story: Sept. 20 @ 10:10 pm) – Mounties say that numerous resources are out looking for a 6-year-old girl who went missing from her home Thursday evening near Burns Lake.
Oaklynn Schweder was last seen outside her home on Southbank at 6 pm.
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She was wearing a red/blue plaid dress, leggings with white bow ties and pink socks.
Police say Oaklynn is on the autism spectrum and is non-verbal.
Search and Rescue has been called in to help in the search.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Oaklynn is urged to contact their local police, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
