RCMP confirm death of missing 5-year-old Frank Young

Police and the Red Earth Cree Nation Chief confirmed the body of five-year-old Frank Young was found Saturday near the area he was originally reported missing from.

Young was last seen on April 19 playing outside the home where he lived with his aunt and uncle in the Red Earth Cree Nation, about 300 kilometers northeast of Saskatoon.

Despite an extensive search by land, air and boat of the community and surrounding areas, the young boy has not been seen since that day.

« At this time, there are no indications of any suspicious circumstances, » RCMP said in a news release Sunday.

« But as he has just been located, further investigative steps will be taken, including working in partnership with the Saskatchewan Coroners Service and an autopsy will take place. »

Officers received a report around 7:06 p.m. Saturday that Young had been found dead in the river on Red Earth Cree Nation, according to RCMP.

Police said Young’s family has been notified.

« This is not how anyone wanted the search for Frank to end, » said Sgt. Richard Tonge, RCMP Carrot River Detachment Commander, in the news release.

« Our deepest condolences go out to Frank’s family, loved ones and community who have been greatly affected by this tragedy. »

We ask for your prayers and continued support, says First Nation Chief

Red Earth Cree Nation Chief Fabian Head confirmed Young’s discovery – in Red Earth Cree Nation water – on social media just after midnight Sunday morning.

Members of the RCMP Tactical Unit and volunteers from the Red Earth and Shoal Lake Cree Nations concentrated on the Carrot River after the spring thaw.

The Carrot River originates in Lake Wakaw and flows northeast through the red earth plains into the Saskatchewan River near The Pas, Manitoba.

« It is with a heavy heart that I announce the discovery of Frank Young on Saturday July 9th, » Head wrote on Facebook.

« We will hold a press conference and release more information at that time. At this time, we ask for your prayers and continued support during our time of mourning. »