Missing Six-Year-Old Found Safe After Intense Search Efforts in Burns Lake

Oaklynn Schweder, a six-year-old girl from the Burns Lake area, was found alive on Sunday after a rigorous search effort that lasted for several days. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) confirmed her safe return in the evening.

According to the RCMP, Oaklynn was discovered in a forested area that had been searched earlier, leading authorities to believe she had been moving during the time she was missing. A video posted on Facebook captures someone carrying Oaklynn, wrapped in a blanket, to a vehicle.

Staff Sgt. Joshua Smith, the commander of the Burns Lake RCMP detachment, expressed relief at the outcome. “This is the outcome we all hoped for. She was missing for multiple days, but everyone searching remained dedicated to bringing her home safely. We are thankful for the support of all our partner agencies and volunteers that worked day and night to achieve this outcome,” he stated.

Oaklynn, who is non-verbal and on the autism spectrum, was last seen near her home in Southbank on Thursday evening, around 6 p.m. The search, which involved police and community members, was later joined by various search and rescue teams and even the Canadian Rangers.

The search efforts included the deployment of helicopters, drones, and dog units. Reports indicate that over 600 volunteers participated in the search. A detailed search plan was based on statistical analysis, focusing on high-probability areas arranged in concentric rings extending up to 300 meters from Oaklynn’s last known location.

Due to Oaklynn’s autism, search teams were briefed about her potential behaviors, such as hiding or climbing trees. The community played a significant role, assisting in feeding and sheltering volunteers and providing necessary logistical support.