RCMP have launched a billboard campaign to raise awareness in locating an 11-year-old who has been missing for three weeks.
Burnaby RCMP said Friday (Oct. 17) that it’s expanded outreach in the search for Kai Pavlovic, with messaging on billboards across the province. The billboards are in partnership with MissingKids.ca.
Each billboard will include a photo of Kai and contact information for Burnaby RCMP. They’ve also been translated into French and Serbian.
Police were first contacted about Kai on Sept. 26, “when a well-being check was requested for him,” according to Friday’s news release. Police said investigators have spoken with Kai’s family “and have reason to believe he is with a caretaker, who police are actively working to identify.”
Burnaby RCMP media relations officer Cpl. Laura Hirst said police are making a direct appeal to the caretaker or anyone who knows them, adding police need to confirm Kai’s safety and well-being.
“We want everyone to be on the lookout for Kai. Our investigators are working tirelessly to locate him, and we are asking for the public’s help as part of that ongoing effort,” Hirst said.
“The billboards are another method among many which we are using to get the word out about Kai and help move our investigation forward.”
Burnaby RCMP put out the first news release Oct. 1, with minimal information.
The next update came Oct. 2 when police first mentioned the caretaker. It added that “various investigational avenues were pursued,” but were so far unsuccessful.
The Oct. 9 Burnaby RCMP said investigators were hoping to speak with community members who may have interacted with Kai as part of his daily routine, specifically any adults or parents whose children have been participating in playdates, sports, and/or extra curricular activities with Kai.
It also included a statement from Kai’s family in New Zealand.
“Kai is a bright, curious, outgoing and kind little boy who loves to climb trees, build forts and learn to sail. He is a friend to all animals and particularly adores horses, cats and dogs.”
Kai is described as five feet, with a thin build and brown hair.
Anyone with information on where Kai might be is asked to contact the Burnaby RCMP at 604-646-9999 or their local police.