With few leads, search for missing N.S. kids focuses on area where boot print found

Volunteers in Pictou County continued their search for missing siblings Lilly Sullivan, 6, and Jack Sullivan, 4, over the weekend, focusing on an area where a boot print was discovered during a previous search. However, despite their efforts, searchers admit that they have little to go on and cannot confirm if the boot print is connected to the missing children.

Amy Hansen from Colchester Ground Search and Rescue, who is leading the search operation, stated, “We don’t know for sure it was from the children, but it’s the only real thing we’ve had to go on thus far.” Approximately 75 volunteers resumed the search on Saturday in hopes of finding any clues that could lead to the whereabouts of Lilly and Jack Sullivan, who were reported missing on May 2 from their home in Lansdowne Station, N.S.

Since the search was halted two weeks ago, no new evidence has emerged, prompting crews to return this weekend to cover specific areas of interest. The search is currently focused on Landsdowne Lake and a nearby pipeline trail where the boot print was located. However, the dense woods filled with brush and debris have posed challenges to the searchers.

So far, teams have conducted a grid search covering approximately six square kilometers, with plans to expand their search to an additional one or two square kilometers this weekend. Despite the assistance of three drones, helicopters have been unable to join the search due to poor weather conditions.

Various ground search and rescue teams from Pictou, Strait, East Hants, Springhill, Pugwash, and Halifax are also aiding in the search efforts. Hansen mentioned that the physically and emotionally demanding nature of the search has taken a toll on some members, with individuals finding it difficult to continue.

The children’s stepfather, Daniel Martell, expressed the pain and frustration his family has endured over the past month, stating, “Every day when I wake up, it feels like I’m reliving a nightmare.” The search will persist until Sunday evening unless any significant developments occur, according to Hansen.

As the community remains hopeful for a breakthrough in the search for Lilly and Jack Sullivan, the dedicated volunteers and search teams continue their efforts to bring the missing siblings home safely.