In the rugged foothills of southwestern Alberta, a family gathering meant for relaxation and bonding has spiraled into a harrowing saga of loss and unanswered questions. Six-year-old Darius MacDougall vanished during a late-season camping trip on September 21, 2025, sparking an intensive search that gripped the region. Weeks later, as hope fades for Darius, the family is reeling from another blow: the sudden death of Kya Tayen Rhyder Warrior, also six, who was part of the same extended group on that fateful outing.

The incident unfolded near Island Lake in the Crowsnest Pass area, a picturesque but unforgiving stretch of backcountry along the Alberta-British Columbia border. Darius, a Lethbridge resident described by loved ones as a bright and adventurous child with autism, was last seen playing with relatives near their campsite. According to a detailed statement released by the family on October 15, the group was packing up to leave that morning when the children, including Darius and several cousins, were given some freedom to explore nearby. The adults, including Darius’s father and his girlfriend Buffy Gaudry, were reportedly loading vehicles just a short distance away. In a matter of moments, Darius was gone.

Family members recounted the frantic initial search in their statement: “We searched long into the night, calling his name, combing the bushes and trails.” They emphasized that no one heard any cries or unusual sounds, and the terrain—dense with forests, steep ravines, and nearby water bodies—quickly complicated efforts. Darius’s mother, Maegan MacDougall, who was not present on the trip, has been vocal about her belief that foul play could be involved, though authorities have not indicated any evidence of that. She confirmed in interviews that Darius is not nonverbal and would respond if called, countering early reports that may have mischaracterized his condition.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) launched a massive response within hours. Sgt. Mark Amatto of the Crowsnest Pass RCMP detachment coordinated an 11-day ground search involving hundreds of volunteers, drones, helicopters, search dogs, and even underwater teams scouring nearby lakes and rivers. At its peak, the operation covered vast swaths of wilderness, but the challenging landscape and dropping temperatures—nights dipping below freezing—hampered progress. By September 28, just a week in, officials grimly assessed Darius’s survival chances at less than 5 percent, citing exposure risks for a child of his age.

The search was officially called off on October 1, with the RCMP stating they had “exhausted all reasonable avenues” but emphasizing that the investigation remains active. No signs of Darius—such as clothing, footprints, or personal items—were ever found, leaving experts puzzled. “This is one of those cases where the absence of evidence is evidence itself,” one search and rescue coordinator told local media, though the RCMP has declined to speculate on scenarios ranging from accidental wandering to abduction.

Amid the ongoing mystery, the family has faced scrutiny and speculation on social media. Posts on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook have questioned the circumstances, with some users pointing to the group’s dynamics. Darius’s father and Gaudry, who share a relationship, were overseeing the children, including Gaudry’s daughter, Kya. The family statement addressed rumors head-on, urging the public to focus on finding Darius rather than spreading unverified theories. “Our family is devastated, and these baseless accusations only add to our pain,” it read.

Adding to the tragedy, Kya Tayen Rhyder Warrior passed away on October 10 at Alberta Children’s Hospital in Calgary, following what the family described as a “separate tragic event.” Born on September 13, 2019, Kya—affectionately nicknamed “Honey Badger”—was remembered in her obituary as a vibrant child full of energy and love. Details of her health matter remain undisclosed, with authorities and family alike stressing it is unrelated to Darius’s disappearance. A wake service was held on October 17 at Snodgrass Funeral Homes in Pincher Creek, where loved ones gathered to honor her short life.

The timing of Kya’s death has fueled online discussions, with true crime enthusiasts and concerned citizens drawing parallels to other high-profile cases involving children in remote settings. Accounts like @bloodyteacrime and @CoffindafferFBI have amplified calls for information, sharing photos of Darius in his last known outfit: a blue shirt, pants, and possibly a jacket. Advocacy groups, including Missing People of Canada, have kept the story alive, posting updates and flyers urging tips to the RCMP tip line at (403) 562-2866.

Experts in child disappearances note that cases like this often hinge on small details overlooked in the chaos. Dr. Elena Rossi, a forensic psychologist specializing in missing persons, explained in a recent interview that autistic children may wander farther than expected due to sensory curiosities, but the lack of any trace after such an exhaustive search raises red flags. “Wilderness abductions are rare, but not impossible in border areas,” she said, though she cautioned against jumping to conclusions without evidence.

The family’s statement also criticized aspects of the official response, claiming roads weren’t closed quickly enough and that the search perimeter may not have been adequately secured in the critical early hours. RCMP officials have defended their efforts, pointing to the deployment of advanced technology and the involvement of multiple agencies. “We left no stone unturned,” Sgt. Amatto stated at a press briefing.

As winter approaches, the window for new leads narrows. Community vigils have been held in Lethbridge and Crowsnest Pass, with candles lit for both Darius and Kya. Maegan MacDougall has appealed directly to the public: “If anyone saw anything—a vehicle, a suspicious person—please come forward. My boy is out there.” Advocacy for autism awareness has surged in the wake of the case, with organizations highlighting the need for better safety protocols in outdoor settings.

The dual tragedies have left a scar on this tight-knit community, where outdoor adventures are a way of life. Residents like those in nearby Pincher Creek express a mix of sorrow and resolve. “We hike these trails all the time; it’s supposed to be safe,” one local told reporters. As the investigation continues without new developments, the family clings to hope amid profound grief.

For now, Darius’s case remains open, a stark reminder of how quickly joy can turn to despair in nature’s vast expanse. Authorities encourage anyone with information to contact them immediately, as even the smallest tip could crack the mystery. In the meantime, two families mourn—one for a child lost to the unknown, the other to an untimely fate.