Search continues for missing six-year-old girl south of Burns Lake – BC News

A large-scale search is underway south of Burns Lake for a missing six-year-old girl.

Oaklynn Schwedder went missing from her home in Southbank around 6 p.m. Thursday evening. Southbank is about 23 kilometers south of Burns Lake.

In a news release Saturday morning, the British Columbia RCMP said “significant resources” from across the province are currently involved in the search, including members of the RCMP, search and rescue services, the BC Wildfire Service and local volunteers. Canadian Rangers and Canadian Armed Forces reservists are also en route to assist.

Search teams are using helicopters, drones and police dogs to find the young child.

Oaklynn is autistic and her family says she cannot speak, although she “babbles” and makes noises to communicate. Her family says Oaklynn likes to go into small spaces.

She was last seen wearing a red and blue checked dress, leggings with white bow ties and pink socks.

“We are grateful for the overwhelming support, including the large number of volunteers who have all come together with the common goal of bringing Oaklynn home safely,” said Staff Sgt. Josh Smith, Commander of the Burns Lake RCMP Detachment.

“Finding Oaklynn is our top priority. We continue to stay in touch with Oaklynn's family to ensure they support him and keep him updated.”

The Skin Tyee Band is helping coordinate volunteers and providing them with food and shelter. Police have asked volunteers traveling to the area to carpool to avoid traffic jams in the small community that could hamper the search.

Police have asked anyone with information about Oaklynn's whereabouts to call Burns Lake RCMP at 250-692-7171.