The Alberta government announced Monday it will review its emergency alert system after a multi-week search for an 11-year-old boy with autism in Calgary last month. The boy was found safe, but the search highlighted gaps in the province's alert protocols.
During the search, which lasted from mid-July to early August, the province did not issue an Amber Alert, as the criteria were not met. Instead, local police and community volunteers conducted extensive ground searches. The case drew widespread attention and raised questions about when and how emergency alerts are used for vulnerable missing persons.
Premier Danielle Smith said the review will examine ways to strengthen the system for vulnerable individuals, including potential adjustments to alert criteria. The review will involve consultations with law enforcement, emergency management officials, and advocacy groups for people with disabilities.
Officials have not provided a timeline for the review's completion, but they emphasized the importance of ensuring timely and effective alerts in future cases.
