Family of Missing Boy Appeals for Funds to Continue Search

The family of missing teenager Samuel Bird has launched a public appeal for financial assistance to sustain their ongoing search efforts. Bird, who disappeared from his home in west Edmonton on June 1, 2023, has prompted his family and friends to organize extensive search operations in hopes of locating him. However, they are now facing resource limitations, which have raised concerns as winter approaches.

“My family and I have been searching for my son every day since his disappearance four months ago,” said Justin B. Bird, Samuel’s father, in a recent statement. “We have not been sitting back idly, waiting for answers. We want to find Samuel and get him the justice he deserves. I love my son and I miss him.”

The family intends to use the funds raised to secure professional search-and-rescue teams, search dogs, drones, and rentals for boats and helicopters. Their appeal has garnered support from various community leaders, including Greg Desjarlais, Grand Chief of the Confederacy of Treaty No. 6 First Nations. Desjarlais emphasized the need for long-term investment in Indigenous-led search and recovery teams, stating, “The burden cannot fall on families alone.”

Concerns Over Police Response

The circumstances surrounding Samuel’s disappearance have evoked criticism regarding the response from Edmonton police. Jodi Calahoo-Stonehouse, an MLA for Edmonton-Rutherford, questioned the delay in issuing an AMBER alert and mobilizing search parties, suggesting that no family should have to wait 40 days for such assistance.

In response to these criticisms, the Edmonton Police Services (EPS) assured the public that the investigation remains a priority. “The detectives investigating this case have been tirelessly following every lead since Samuel was reported missing in June,” said Inspector Sean Anderson of the EPS Major Crimes Branch. The department has deemed Bird’s disappearance as suspicious and committed to the ongoing search efforts.

Community Support and Fundraising Efforts

A donation page has been established on the Confederacy of Treaty No. 6 First Nations’ website to facilitate contributions. The community’s response has been overwhelmingly supportive, with many individuals expressing their solidarity with the Bird family during this challenging time.

Desjarlais noted the emotional impact of Samuel’s case, stating, “This case has touched hearts across Treaty No. 6 Territory.” The family’s efforts have inspired local residents to join in the search, with many volunteers participating in organized search events since the beginning of the efforts in mid-July.

As the search continues, Samuel Bird is described as slim, standing at five feet eight inches, with brown hair and brown eyes. The urgency of the situation is heightened as the family and community strive to find him before adverse weather conditions impede search activities.

The ongoing efforts to locate Samuel Bird highlight both the resilience of his family and the collective action of the community, underscoring the importance of support during times of crisis.