Police warn of donation scam amid search for missing Calgary boy

Calgary police issued a public warning Tuesday about a fraudulent online fundraising campaign that has surfaced as the search for 11-year-old Parker, missing since July 16, continues. The campaign falsely claims to support the search for the boy, who is neurodivergent and non-verbal.

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This fundraiser is not authorized and has no connection to Parker’s family. At this time, the family has confirmed that there is no official GoFundMe associated with this case.

"This fundraiser is not authorized and has no connection to Parker’s family," police stated in a Facebook post. The family has confirmed no official GoFundMe or similar campaign is associated with the case. Police urged the public to exercise caution with online fundraisers and verify their legitimacy before donating.

Parker was last seen on July 16 between 11:08 a.m. and 11:41 a.m. in the northwest Calgary community of Connaught. Despite no initial evidence of abduction, an Amber Alert was issued on Saturday with special provincial permission. A map released Tuesday shows Parker heading northeast toward Highwood, last seen on video around 12:52 p.m. on July 16 in the northeast community of Travis Heights.

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Police are urging the public to use caution when contributing to online fundraisers and to verify the legitimacy of any donation campaign before making a contribution.

The extensive search has involved over 400 officers, more than 300 public tips, and 5,500 search hours, covering 7,000 kilometers. Hundreds of search and rescue experts and community members have also assisted. Police also warned against individuals confronting residents at private homes or attempting their own investigations.

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compassion, determination and truly heroic efforts

Parker's family expressed gratitude for the community's "compassion, determination and truly heroic efforts" during this "incredibly painful time." The boy is described as four feet 11 inches tall, approximately 90 pounds, with brown hair, a shaved head, and brown eyes. He was last seen shirtless, wearing dark shorts and black noise-cancelling headphones.

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incredibly painful time