Police said their search for missing Hay River man David Park has moved to Alberta, as they called for him to make contact and tell someone he is safe.
Late on Thursday, RCMP said their investigation suggested Park “may have travelled to Grande Prairie or Clairmont.” NWT residents who may have provided someone with a ride to those communities, or Alberta residents who may have seen Park, are asked to come forward.
However, police said there was no evidence to limit the search only to those communities – and the investigation continues.
Meanwhile, the tone with which RCMP approached their appeal shifted. Police on Thursday for the first time made clear they are not interested in detaining Park or returning him to Hay River, in an apparent attempt to reassure him should he have chosen to leave the community.
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“The RCMP’s search for David is strictly to confirm his safety and well-being. We wish to advise anyone who may have had contact with David, and David himself, that we just want them to call the Hay River RCMP so we know he’s safe,” said spokesperson Marie York-Condon in prepared remarks.
Park has been missing since April 3. He is of Korean descent and speaks limited English.
