The Alberta government is launching a review of its emergency alert system and vulnerability protocols following the tragic death of 11-year-old Parker Wells.
Public Safety and Emergency Services will engage with law enforcement agencies, disability advocacy groups, and community partners to evaluate processes when a vulnerable individual goes missing. The review will specifically examine the Amber Alert system and its existing activation criteria to identify opportunities for improvement and inform future policy options.
Concurrently, Assisted Living and Social Services will conduct a review into the policies, procedures, and protocols of the service provider responsible for Parker’s care at the time of his disappearance.
“Parker’s death is a heartbreaking tragedy, and our thoughts remain with his family and everyone who knew and loved him,” said Mike Ellis, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services. “We want to make sure we learn from what happened. By listening to law enforcement, disability advocates and community partners, we can better understand how emergency alerts are working today and what options should be considered for the future.”
Nathan Neudorf, Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services, also expressed his condolences to the family and community. “My deepest condolences go to the Wells family, their friends and everyone affected by this heartbreaking loss,” Neudorf said. “We will carefully review what happened and consider all recommendations to strengthen protections for vulnerable children.”