A mum and daughter have tearfully reunited after the six-year-old went missing in the Canadian forest for three days.
Oaklynn Schweder, who has been described by her family as autistic and non-verbal, went missing from outside her home in British Colombia last Thursday.
She wandered through the forest alone for three days, sparking a huge search with drones, helicopters and police dogs drafted in to try and locate her.
More than 600 volunteers joined police, British Columbia Wildlife Service and Search and Rescue teams in the search, local news outlet Prince George Citizen reports.
But to her family’s relief Oaklynn was found on Sunday – and her emotional reunion with mum Gail Skin was caught on video.
Gail and dad James Schweder ran into the forest before mum scooped Oaklynn up in her arms, shouting and crying ‘baby girl’.
The six-year-old was wrapped in a blanket by search volunteers as they applauded at her discovery and comforted her parents.
Oaklynn didn’t appear to have any visible injuries, but she was taken to Burns Lake Hospital for further check-ups.
A Royal Canadian Mountain Police spokesperson said: ‘She was found in a forested area previously searched between her residence and the band office, leaving searchers to believe she was likely moving around during the time she was missing.
‘This is the outcome that we all hoped for, she was missing for multiple days, but everyone searching remained dedicated to bringing her home safely.
‘We are thankful for the support of all our partner agencies and volunteers that worked day and night to achieve this outcome.’
Oaklynn’s family said she likes to crawl into small spaces, supporting the theory that the youngster moved around while missing in the forest.
Both her parents have expressed joy and relief that their daughter has returned home safe, with dad James saying: ‘Oh my God, I can’t believe it, we have our daughter home safe and sound now, I am so happy.
‘I also can’t believe how much support and love we got from their different agencies and volunteers who came out and helped us in these dark times.
‘I can’t thank everybody enough for their help and support during these last few days.’
Mum Gail said: ‘I’m sitting looking at my baby girl, watching her sleep and I am just so grateful she’s here beside me.
‘Thank you again to everyone who helped in any way for helping [to bring] my girl back home.’
Oaklynn, who turns seven on September 30, will be having the ‘biggest birthday party’ to celebrate her rescue, Gail added.
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