OPP are currently on-scene in West Perth, Ont., searching for a missing child.
Police say around 10:30 a.m., Sunday emergency crews responded to a report of a missing 10-year-old girl who was last seen at the river outside of Mitchell.
OPP say the Stratford, St. Marys, and Huron Area Search and Rescue Swift Water Rescue teams, along with the OPP West Region Emergency Response Team, Canine Unit, Underwater Search and Rescue, and Aviation are continuing to search for the child.
In order to give space for emergency crews, Perth County media relations officer Jillian Johnson says the public is asked to avoid the area.
“The conditions are very hazardous, the water is fast-moving, and we are asking the public to stay away from the area because there are trained personnel working and conducting the search,” Johnson told Global News.
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“It is really great there are so many people wanting to help, but because of the poor conditions out there, we do not need anyone to potently cause more tragedies to happen.”
Police say a number of citizens have offered to assist in the search, but the area around the river is not safe and could hinder the rescue efforts.
OPP say updates will be provided as they are available.
“This is a very difficult time for our community so we are asking people be respectful of the family and everyone involved,” Johnson said.
Anyone with information is asked to call the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
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