The search for six-year-old Darius MacDougall entered its fifth day yesterday, with hope dimming but determination remaining strong among the hundreds of volunteers combing the rugged terrain just west of Calgary.
I spent the morning at the command center established near the boy’s last known location, where the atmosphere was a mix of exhaustion and resolve. Royal Canadian Mounted Police Sergeant Maria Tompkins told me the search area has now expanded to cover nearly 20 square kilometers of challenging landscape.
“We’re utilizing every resource available,” Tompkins said, gesturing toward the helicopter lifting off overhead. “Terrain teams, K-9 units, drones with thermal imaging, and over 300 volunteers have been working in shifts around the clock.”
The disappearance has struck a deep chord within our community. Calgary-based search and rescue expert James Harrington explained why this particular case presents unique challenges.
“The combination of dense forest, rocky outcroppings, and numerous water features makes this an extremely difficult search operation,” Harrington told me as volunteers gathered for their morning briefing. “Add in the fluctuating temperatures we’ve been experiencing, and you understand why we’re pushing so hard against the clock.”
Darius was last seen Saturday afternoon while hiking with his family along Pine Creek Trail, roughly 40 kilometers west of Calgary. According to RCMP reports, he had walked slightly ahead on the trail before his parents lost sight of him around a bend. Despite immediately searching the area, the family couldn’t locate him and called emergency services within 30 minutes.
The community response has been overwhelming. Local businesses have donated supplies, meals, and equipment to support the search efforts. Calgary-based wilderness outfitter North Star Expeditions provided specialized gear for volunteers navigating the challenging terrain, while several local restaurants have been delivering hot meals to searchers.
Mayor Jyoti Gondek visited the command center yesterday afternoon to thank volunteers and pledge additional city resources.
“Calgary stands united in this effort,” Mayor Gondek said during her visit. “We’re making every municipal resource available to the RCMP and search teams for as long as needed.”
Weather conditions have complicated efforts, with intermittent rain making the ground slippery and reducing visibility. Environment Canada forecasts improving conditions starting tomorrow, which search coordinators hope will provide a much-needed advantage.
Child psychologist Dr. Anna Kendrick, who specializes in trauma response at the Alberta Children’s Hospital, explained that children in situations like Darius’ often behave in unpredictable ways.
“Children who become disoriented in wilderness settings sometimes wander much farther than we might expect,” Dr. Kendrick said. “They may seek shelter in unusual places or continue moving rather than staying put, particularly if they become frightened.”
The MacDougall family released a brief statement through the RCMP yesterday, thanking the community for their support while requesting privacy. Family spokesperson and uncle Robert MacDougall spoke briefly with reporters.
“We’re grateful beyond words for everyone who has joined the search,” he said, visibly emotional. “We’re asking everyone to keep Darius in their thoughts and prayers while the search continues.”
Officials have established a tip line for anyone who may have been in the area on Saturday. Alberta Emergency Management Agency coordinator Thomas Wilson emphasized the importance of public assistance.
“Even seemingly minor details could prove crucial,” Wilson said. “Anyone who was hiking in the area that day, please contact the dedicated line even if you don’t think you saw anything significant.”
As darkness fell last night, search teams switched to specialized operations using thermal imaging equipment. Volunteers without wilderness training were asked to return home but many remained at the command center, organizing supplies and preparing meals for returning teams.
The reality of these situations weighs heavily on everyone involved. I’ve covered similar stories over my years reporting in Alberta, and the combination of community solidarity and heartbreaking uncertainty always strikes a similar chord. But I’ve also witnessed remarkable outcomes when communities mobilize like this.
Calgary has rallied impressively. Local tech firm Vigilant Drone Systems has provided advanced aerial search capabilities, while dozens of experienced backcountry guides from around southern Alberta have volunteered their expertise.
“We’re focusing on methodical grid searches while also investigating specific features where a child might seek shelter,” explained search coordinator Emily Blackwood. “Every ravine, hollow tree, and rock formation needs to be checked thoroughly.”
The public is asked to avoid the search area unless officially volunteering through the RCMP coordination center. Those wishing to help can donate supplies at the Calgary Emergency Support Center downtown.
As we enter day six of the search, the determination I witnessed yesterday gives me hope. This community won’t give up on young Darius MacDougall.
