Edmonton Police Service detectives have declared that 14-year-old Samuel Bird, who has been missing since June 1, is presumed dead, with suspicions that his disappearance involves criminal activities. Surveillance footage captured Bird walking through the premises of Holy Cross School in the city’s west end at around 8:30 p.m. on that day. The last known sighting of him was at a friend’s house near 150th Street and 106th Avenue, where police executed a search warrant in September.
Detective Jared Buhler from the EPS homicide unit revealed during a recent news conference that although individuals of interest have been identified, no charges have been pressed yet. Buhler suggested that those responsible for Bird’s vanishing might have disposed of his body within 150 kilometers of Edmonton shortly after he went missing.
EPS has reason to believe that Bird’s body was concealed on land, prompting a plea to the public, especially hunters, landowners, and outdoor enthusiasts, to be vigilant regarding the case. Despite conducting multiple searches in the area using specialized personnel and canines, the police have not disclosed these efforts earlier for investigative purposes.
Buhler emphasized the primary focus of the investigation on locating and retrieving Samuel’s remains, expressing gratitude to Bird’s family for their unwavering support throughout this distressing ordeal. Speaking to reporters, Bird’s mother, Alanna, conveyed the profound impact of her son’s disappearance, highlighting the ongoing plight faced by Indigenous families dealing with similar tragedies.
Both of Samuel’s grandmothers shared that his spiritual name translates to “Little Boy on the Moon,” while his father, Justin Bird, expressed his enduring love and longing for his son. Justin reminisced about their interactions through Xbox messages and the void left by Samuel’s absence in their daily lives, underscoring the emotional toll of the situation.
Individuals with any relevant information concerning Bird’s disappearance are urged to reach out to EPS or CrimeStoppers for assistance.
