Missing Siblings in Nova Scotia: RCMP Scales Back Search

The search continues for six-year-old Lily Sullivan and four-year-old Jack Sullivan, missing since Friday morning, May 2, from their family home near Gairloch Road in Lansdowne Station, Nova Scotia. The missing siblings are believed to have wandered away from the home, located about 20 kilometres southwest of New Glasgow, prompting one of the largest ground searches in recent provincial memory.

Search Scaled Back, Investigation Ongoing

On Wednesday, May 7, the RCMP scaled back the search, though they continue to investigate the case, which they consider potentially suspicious. Authorities say multiple investigative teams, including the RCMP’s major crimes unit, have joined the effort. While police haven’t confirmed any evidence of abduction, the children’s stepfather, Daniel Martell told CBC he now believes someone took them.

“They [RCMP] want to rule everything out before switching from search-and-rescue to abduction,” Martell said in a CBC interview.

What Happened on May 2?

The children’s mother, Malehya Brooks-Murray, and Martell said the kids were home sick from school that Friday. Martell heard Jack in the kitchen and saw Lily come in and out of the bedroom before he realized they had left. He believes they may have slipped out quietly through a nearly soundless sliding back door.

RCMP were called around 10 a.m. The search began quickly and has since involved:

100–140 searchers during the day
60–75 overnight searchers
Drones with infrared technology
Police dogs and ground crews
Volunteers and provincial emergency response teams

Still, no trace of Lily or Jack has been confirmed. Martell said police showed him a shirt, water bottle, and blanket found nearby, but none belonged to the children.

Why Wasn’t an Amber Alert Issued?

Despite the family’s plea, police did not trigger an Amber Alert, citing a lack of evidence of abduction. Instead, they issued a vulnerable persons alert across Pictou, Colchester, and Antigonish counties.

Their mother expressed frustration:

“Even if it’s not an abduction, an alert would have told everyone they’re missing.”

What Were Lily and Jack Wearing?

Lily Sullivan: Shoulder-length light brown hair with bangs, pink sweater, pink pants, pink boots, and a white backpack with red strawberries
Jack Sullivan: Short blondish hair, blue dinosaur boots, and a pull-up diaper

Search Area and Community Involvement

The heavily wooded terrain surrounding the home remains the focus of the scaled-back search. Pink ribbons now mark areas already searched. The Nova Scotia Guard and Colchester Ground Search and Rescue continue coordinating efforts based on data and child behavior patterns.

RCMP and search teams urge the public to stay out of the search area, but locals are encouraged to check their own properties.

Community Support Remains Strong

The children’s maternal grandfather is a member of the Sipekne’katik First Nation, which issued a statement expressing unity and hope for their safe return. Chief Michelle Glasgow wrote:

“Please help bring Lily and Jack back home.”

Warden Robert Parker of Pictou County said the children have “become everybody’s children” and urged people to avoid spreading speculation or harmful content online.

Authorities Stay Committed

Though the active ground search is winding down, the investigation remains open. The RCMP says all resources are still available, and they continue to analyze tips and evidence as they come in.

Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston also posted support, highlighting the tireless work of first responders and volunteers in this 24/7 operation.

What are your thoughts on how authorities and communities handle vulnerable missing persons cases? Share your comments below.

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