Missing Six-Year-Old Safely Found at Sandbanks After Community-Led Search

Date: August 09, 2023

A six-year-old child reported missing at Sandbanks Provincial Park has been safely located thanks to the quick response of emergency services and an extraordinary effort by park visitors.

The incident occurred on Sunday, August 6, 2023, when Prince Edward County OPP were contacted shortly after 5:30 p.m. by Provincial Park Wardens. Officials reported that the child had been unaccounted for approximately 30 minutes and was last seen in the water, raising immediate concerns for safety.

As police and emergency personnel arrived, members of the public stepped in to help, forming a human chain along the shoreline. Working together, participants systematically searched both the beach and shallow water, covering a wide area.

Their combined efforts proved successful. The child was found more than one kilometre up the beach, bringing a relieved and positive conclusion to the search.

According to PEC OPP Community Safety Officer Aaron Miller, the incident highlighted the power of community action.

No injuries were reported, and authorities praised the swift teamwork and vigilance that helped ensure the child’s safe recovery.