Alberta Emergency Alert activated after search intensifies for missing Calgary child
Phones across Alberta buzzed Saturday after authorities issued an Alberta Emergency Alert to help locate 11-year-old Parker Wells, who is non-verbal and autistic. Calgary police say Parker was last seen on Thursday afternoon in the city’s north end. The family and investigators are appealing for province-wide assistance while urging members of the public to avoid direct contact if they spot him and instead call police immediately.
Police described Parker as having been seen shirtless, in grey shorts and wearing black noise-cancelling headphones. Investigators said items of clothing believed to be his were recovered on the day he was reported missing. Officers have reviewed roughly 30 tips, conducted door-to-door inquiries and coordinated a ground search that drew up to 120 volunteers on Saturday.
“Parker experiences the world in his own way,” a statement from his family said. “He may not respond when his name is called, and he can become frightened when approached by people he does not know. Parker is a loved son, brother and friend. Our family is heartbroken by his disappearance.”
Calgary police said they do not believe foul play is involved at this time. After initial efforts “exhausted all investigative avenues,” officers turned to broader public notification. Police noted Saturday morning that Parker’s case did not meet the criteria for an Amber Alert, and they worked with the Missing Children’s Society of Canada on alternatives. Hours later, the province approved an exemption that allowed the Calgary Police Service to send an Alberta Emergency Alert, expanding awareness beyond city limits.
According to the Alberta government’s public guidance, Amber Alerts are reserved for cases meeting four specific conditions, which include confirmation that a child has been abducted. In situations where those conditions are not met but the child’s health or safety is a concern, agencies can pursue other tools, such as the province’s emergency alert platform, to mobilize public assistance.
Authorities emphasized that Parker may be easily startled by unfamiliar people and may not answer to his name. Anyone who thinks they see him should avoid approaching or calling out, and instead contact police right away with the precise location and time of the sighting. Officers say community members can be most helpful by staying observant, sharing verified information and providing tip details without delay.
- If you believe you’ve seen Parker: do not approach; call police immediately.
- Note the exact location, time and any distinguishing details (clothing, direction of travel).
- Share only official updates from police and the Alberta Emergency Alert to reduce misinformation.
The search has spanned neighbourhoods in north Calgary, with officers and volunteers combing parks, pathways and residential areas since Thursday. Police say they are coordinating with partner agencies as well as the Missing Children’s Society of Canada to ensure tips are triaged and resources are deployed where needed.
| Timeline | Key development |
|---|---|
| Thursday afternoon | Parker last seen in Calgary’s north end |
| Day reported missing | Clothing believed to be his recovered by investigators |
| Saturday morning | Police say case does not meet Amber Alert criteria |
| Hours later Saturday | Province authorizes Alberta Emergency Alert exemption for CPS |
| Saturday | About 30 tips reviewed; up to 120 volunteers join search |
Officials are reminding residents that emergency alerts may be used in exceptional missing-child cases when rapid public awareness can aid a safe return. With Parker considered vulnerable due to his medical condition, police say time and accurate information are critical. They are asking Calgarians — and Albertans beyond the city — to remain vigilant until the alert is cancelled.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police immediately. Updates will be issued through Calgary police channels and the Alberta Emergency Alert system.
