Full Breakdown
Alberta boys abducted in July found safe in BC after two-month search
By Drooid · · How we work
Children located on a rural West Kelowna property
Police announced that two boys, ages four and six, who were reported missing from Valhalla Centre, Alberta, in early July were discovered unharmed on a rural property outside West Kelowna, British Columbia. The children were taken into the care of British Columbia’s Ministry of Children and Family Development pending transfer back to Alberta Children’s Services. Their mother, Krista Morrison, and her partner, Daniel Ludwig, were arrested on outstanding warrants and charged with contravening a custody order. Both remain in custody in British Columbia, with bail hearings scheduled in that province.
Investigation background
The RCMP launched an Amber Alert in early July after the boys were taken from the Alberta hamlet, extending alerts to British Columbia and the Northwest Territories. Over the ensuing two-plus months, specialized RCMP units from Alberta, British Columbia, the Northwest Territories and Yukon conducted coordinated searches of rural properties across multiple jurisdictions. The operation culminated in a tactical response on Thursday that led officers to the location on Trepainer Road, near the community of Peachland.
Official statements & responses
Inspector Breanne Brown, Acting Officer in Charge of the Alberta RCMP Serious Crimes Branch, highlighted the cross-jurisdictional collaboration that enabled the safe recovery. Staff Sergeant Derrick Gladdish, the team commander, said investigators received a photograph showing the children appearing “happy, young children” and reported no immediate signs of distress. The RCMP indicated that the children’s well-being will be assessed, and that arrangements are underway to return them to Alberta.
Verbatim quotes
- “After approximately two and a half months of sustained investigative efforts, we are grateful to report that both children have been found safe,” — Insp. Breanne Brown
- “My investigators did send me a picture, and they seemed to be happy, young children,” — Staff Sgt. Derrick Gladdish
- “They do not seem to be in any distress at the time that they're apprehended.” — Staff Sgt. Derrick Gladdish
- “This investigation demonstrates the dedication and persistence of investigators and the value of collaboration across multiple RCMP units and jurisdictions,” — Insp. Breanne Brown
Upcoming proceedings
Bail hearings for Morrison and Ludwig will be held in British Columbia, where prosecutors intend to seek continued detention and the children’s return to Alberta for court appearances. The RCMP has not released further investigative details pending ongoing legal processes.