Urgent Search for Missing 11-Year-Old Boy in British Columbia

An urgent search is underway for an 11-year-old boy, Kai Pavlovic, who has gone missing in British Columbia, Canada. His family, both in New Zealand and Canada, have expressed grave concerns for his safety as police work tirelessly to locate him. The Burnaby Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) issued a public appeal for information on Thursday, September 28, 2023, as they seek assistance from the community.

According to police, they first received a request for a wellbeing check on Kai on September 26. Investigators have contacted family members and believe that Kai may be staying with a caretaker who is currently unknown to authorities. Despite extensive efforts and the dedication of numerous resources, the search has yet to yield any leads regarding his whereabouts.

The RCMP emphasized the importance of public awareness in locating Kai. A police spokeswoman stated, “Our investigators are making every effort to find Kai and we are asking for the public’s help as part of those ongoing efforts.” They have requested that anyone with information about Kai or his caretaker reach out to local police to confirm his safety.

The police clarified that while many members of the public have inquired about the possibility of an Amber Alert, the situation does not meet the required criteria. An Amber Alert is typically issued only in cases of confirmed abduction where there is imminent danger to the child.

Kai has been living in Canada for the past year with limited contact with his family overseas. Concerns regarding his wellbeing were recently raised by relatives from his deceased father’s side, prompting his New Zealand family to request a welfare check. A Givealittle fundraising page was established over the weekend to assist Kai’s family in Christchurch as they prepare to travel to Canada to aid in the search.

The missing-person investigation commenced shortly after the welfare check request, but initial appeals for sightings of Kai have not produced any leads. Family members are deeply worried, stating, “All attempts to ensure Kai’s wellbeing have failed, and family have grave concerns for his safety.”

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) acknowledged awareness of the case and confirmed that assistance has been offered to a family member of the child. The MFAT has directed those seeking more information to the SafeTravel website, citing privacy concerns for not disclosing further details.

As the search continues, the community is urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings or information that could assist in locating Kai Pavlovic.