BURST
Police in Burnaby say they continue to search for a missing 11-year-old boy who has family in both B.C. and New Zealand.
Kai Pavlovic was reported missing on Sept. 26, when Burnaby RCMP were called asking for a well-being check on the boy.
Investigators say they spoke with family and “have reason to believe Kai is staying with a caretaker who police are actively working to identify.”
“We believe there are people who know who this caretaker is, and where they are located, and we are appealing to them to come forward and speak to police,” said RCMP Cpl. Laura Hirst. “Our No. 1 priority is to find Kai and confirm his safety and well-being.”
Family members abroad spoke to the New Zealand Herald earlier this week and said they have “grave concerns for his safety.”
“Kai has been living in Canada and had limited contact with family overseas the last 12 months,” the Herald reported. “Recently, concern for his well-being was raised by his deceased father’s family and shared with his New Zealand family.”
Burnaby RCMP investigators are hoping to speak to community members who may have interacted with Kai during his daily routine, such as any playdates, sports or extracurricular activities.
“We would also like to speak to any operators or instructors from sports or activities which Kai has been involved in.”
Hirst said officers are working day and night to find Kai but need help tracking him down. “The best way for the public to help us is to keep an eye out for Kai and contact us immediately if they have any information on his whereabouts.”
Hirst said investigators in Burnaby are in close contact with Kai’s family and extended family, some of whom have travelled to B.C. to help with the search. The family also shared a statement on Thursday.
“Kai is a bright, curious, outgoing and kind little boy who loves to climb trees, build forts and learn to sail,” the statement read. “He is a friend to all animals and particularly adores horses, cats and dogs.
“Kai’s family in New Zealand love him dearly, and they are asking anyone with any information on Kai’s location to please immediately contact Burnaby RCMP at 604-646-9999.”
Kai Pavlovic is about five feet tall with a thin build and brown hair. Police released new photos of him with the latest update in the investigation.
Police said last week that no Amber Alert was issued because police do not believe Kai is in “imminent danger.”
