Sources confirmed Saturday that the body of 5-year-old Frank Young has been found.
The emergency response coordinator for Red Earth Cree Nation Allistair Nawakayas has confirmed the search for Young is over.
Red Earth Cree Nation Chief Fabian Head also confirmed Young’s discovery early Sunday morning in a post on social media.
“It is with a heavy heart that I announce the discovery of Frank Young on Saturday, July 9th. His remains were found in the water at Red Earth Cree Nation,” typed Head in his update on Facebook.
“We will be holding a media conference and will release more information at that time. For now, we ask for your prayers and continued support during our time of grief.”
RCMP from the Carrot River, Sask., detachment shared on Sunday morning that they received a report of Young being located deceased in a river on Red Earth Cree Nation, near the area he was originally reported missing back on April 19.
Police say Young’s family has been notified.
Carrot River RCMP say there is no current indication of suspicious circumstances, however, further investigative steps will be taken as he was recently located. This will include working in partnership with the coroner’s service and scheduling a date for an autopsy, according to police.
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“This is not how anyone wanted the search for Frank to end. Our deepest condolences are with Frank’s family, loved ones, and community who have been greatly impacted by this tragedy,” said Sgt. Richard Tonge, who serves as detachment commander for Carrot River RCMP. “We would like to thank everyone within the community and beyond, who assisted in the search for Frank.”
No other details have been released by RCMP at this time.
Young disappeared April 19 near his home on Red Earth Cree Nation, more than 200 kilometres east of Prince Albert, Sask.
A widespread search effort has been ongoing ever since. At last update on June 21, the search has covered approximately 92 square kilometres with 611 searchers.
At that time, Saskatchewan RCMP tactical support was launching “thorough, targeted searches” of the river banks since the water levels had receded since the last effort.
“Frank used to love playing outside with neighbourhood children,” said Frank’s grandmother Teresa Whitecap. “He was creative. He was fun-loving.… Frank took pride in making things for his caregiver, Barb. He was so proud of the things he made for her.”
“The day that Frank went missing, everybody acted right away,” said Whitecap. “Ever since day one when Frank went missing, we (became) a family. My family are very strong … we come together as one.”
Prince Albert Grand Council as well as the local child and family services organizations have been providing mental health support for families.
With files from Global News.