Update: Resources from across the province deployed to search for missing child
By Castlegar Source
On Sept. 19, 2024, Oaklynn Schweder was reported missing. She was last seen in the 6400-block of Skins Road in Southbank of Burns Lake around 6 p.m. Oaklynn was wearing a red/blue plaid dress, leggings with white bowties and pink socks. Oaklynn is on the autism spectrum and is non-verbal.
Initial media release: BC RCMP – RCMP seek public assistance in locating 6-year-old Oaklynn Schweder (rcmp-grc.gc.ca) – please note the child is 6 years old and this has been corrected in the initial release.
Update
Despite ongoing efforts, Oaklynn has not yet been located. Significant resources from across the province including the RCMP, Search and Rescue, BC Wildfire Service, as well as volunteers are in the area assisting with the search. Canadian Rangers have also been called out to support continuing search efforts.
Additionally, helicopters, Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), and Police Service Dogs have been utilized.
The Skin Tyee Band is engaged and assisting with coordinating volunteers and providing them with food/ shelter.
According to the family, Oaklynn is non-verbal but will babble and make noises to communicate and she likes to go into small spaces.
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 home safely,
says, 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 supported and kept apprised.
Local support and volunteers are being asked to carpool as space is limited and congestion could hinder current search and relief efforts.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Oaklynn is urged to contact Burns Lake RCMP at 250-692-7171. If you locate Oaklynn call police immediately or alert search teams and stay with her until help arrives.
