RCMP Update: Lily and Jack Sullivan Missing from Pictou, Nova Scotia for 20 Days

Today marks 20 days since six-year-old Lily Sullivan and her four-year-old brother Jack were reported missing from their rural home on Gairloch Road near Lansdowne Station, Pictou County. Despite exhaustive efforts, there is still no confirmed trace of the siblings, and the RCMP issued a new update this afternoon outlining the status of the investigation and what lies ahead.

At a media briefing, RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Lisa Croft acknowledged the length and complexity of the case, saying, “We understand the deep concern and emotional toll this has taken on the community, and especially on the family. We remain fully committed to finding Lily and Jack and bringing clarity to what happened on May 2.”

Key Points from the RCMP Update:

Renewed Search Efforts: Beginning tomorrow, the RCMP will resume active ground and aerial searches with a narrowed focus. These efforts will center on areas previously considered lower priority, based on updated information and consultation with behavioral analysts and search experts.

No Confirmed Sightings or Physical Evidence: Investigators reiterated that, as of now, there are no confirmed sightings of Lily or Jack after the initial 911 call and no items—such as clothing, toys, or footprints—have been discovered during prior search operations.

Ongoing Interviews and Investigative Activity: RCMP say they have re-interviewed several individuals connected to the family, including neighbors, extended relatives, and those who were present at the home on the day of the disappearance. While no persons of interest have been publicly identified, investigators confirmed that inconsistencies in accounts are being examined carefully.

Public Asked to Avoid Speculation: The RCMP directly addressed the spread of misinformation and sensationalism on social media, urging the public to refrain from sharing unverified claims. “Speculation only serves to distract from the real work and can do lasting harm,” Croft said.

Community Cooperation Praised: Authorities expressed deep appreciation for the community’s involvement, from volunteer searchers to residents who have come forward with information. Over 200 tips have been received, all of which are being reviewed and logged by the investigative team.

A Family in Waiting: While the Sullivan family did not speak at the press conference, a brief written statement was shared: “We miss Lily and Jack every minute. We are thankful for the support we’ve received and we ask again—if anyone knows anything, please, please come forward.”

At this stage, the RCMP is treating the case as a “complex missing persons investigation.” While abduction has not been ruled out, no evidence has emerged to support any single theory definitively. The investigation remains open and active.

Tomorrow’s renewed search has brought a small but significant resurgence of hope to those who’ve watched this tragedy unfold. The RCMP ask anyone who was in the Lansdowne Station or Gairloch Road area on or around May 2 to contact police, no matter how minor the detail may seem.

As the 20th night without Lily and Jack approaches, Nova Scotians and Canadians across the country remain united in hope—and in the urgent desire for answers.