Police and the head of the Red Earth Cree Nation have confirmed that the body of five-year-old Frank Young was found on Saturday near the area which was initially reported missing.
Frank was last seen on April 19 playing outside the house where he lived with his aunt and uncle in the Cree Nation of the Red Earth, about 300 miles northeast of Saskatoon.
Despite extensive ground, air and boat search of the community and the surrounding area, the boy had not been seen since that day.
“At this time, there is no indication of suspicious circumstances,” the RCMP said on Sunday in a press release.
“But as I just located it, more investigative steps will be taken, including working in collaboration with the Saskatchewan Forensic Service and an autopsy will be done.”
Officers received a report around 7:06 p.m. Saturday that Frank had been found dead in the Red Earth Cree Nation River, according to the RCMP.
Police say Frank’s family has been notified.
“That’s not how anyone wanted Frank’s search to end,” the sergeant said. Richard Tonge, commander of the Carrot River RCMP detachment, said in the press release.
“Our deepest condolences are to Frank’s family, loved ones and community who have been deeply affected by this tragedy.”
‘We ask for your prayers and your continued support’: none
The head of the Cree Nation of the Red Earth, Fabian Head, confirmed the discovery of Frank, in the water of the Cree Nation of the Red Earth, on social media shortly after midnight on Sunday.
Members of the RCMP tactical unit and volunteers from the Red Land and the Cree Nations of Shoal Lake had focused on the Carrot River after the spring thaw.
The Carrot River rises in Lake Wakaw and flows northeast through the Red Earth Plains to the Saskatchewan River near The Pas, Man.
“It’s with a heavy heart that I announce Frank Young’s discovery on Saturday, July 9,” Head wrote on Facebook.
“We will hold a press conference and give more information at that time. For now, we ask for your prayers and your continued support during our time of mourning.”