Community grieves 11-year-old Parker as vigils and memorials begin
Calgary Police confirmed Wednesday that a child's body believed to be Parker was found in a pipe system beneath Deerfoot Trail after nearly two weeks of searching.
Sources · local media reports
The day's top stories, food & events — every morning at 7. Unsubscribe anytime.
Calgary Police confirmed Wednesday afternoon that a child's body, believed to be Parker, was found within a system of pipes that pass under Deerfoot Trail after nearly two weeks of searching.
"For nearly two weeks, so many people woke up hoping it would be the day Parker came home," Calgary Police Chief Katie McLellan said. "Instead, we are here sharing news that is heartbreaking for his family and for everyone who has been carrying that hope."
Mayor Jeromy Farkas said Wednesday the city mourns with those who loved him most. "For nearly two weeks, our community rallied around Parker and his family. Thousands of Calgarians searched, shared information, volunteered their time, and kept Parker and his family in their thoughts," he said.
Premier Danielle Smith and Prime Minister Mark Carney both shared condolences Wednesday, with Smith praising the city's extraordinary response. "To the people of Calgary, you came together in a way that was truly extraordinary. Through countless volunteer hours, posters, social media posts, and unwavering support, you showed just how deeply this community cared about bringing Parker home."
The Calgary Police Service Victim Assistance Support Team (VAST) is offering emotional support and information July 31, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Thorncliffe Greenview Community Association and Recreation Centre. Staff, volunteers and trauma dogs will be on site. Additional support is available by calling VAST at 403-428-8398 or toll-free at 1-888-327-7828.
Plans for candlelight vigils and other tributes have begun circulating online. An Islamic community has organized a public memorial service Thursday evening, shifting an existing prayer service to honour Parker's memory.
What is the exact location where Parker's body was found and how did he come to be in the pipe system?
When will an autopsy be completed and will the cause of death be disclosed?
Are there plans for a public funeral or larger memorial service?
We'll update this story as answers emerge.
The facts
Where was Parker's body found?
Parker's body was found in a system of pipes beneath Deerfoot Trail in Calgary.
How long had Parker been missing?
Parker had been missing for nearly two weeks before Calgary Police confirmed the discovery on Wednesday, July 29, 2026.
What support is available to the community?
The Calgary Police Service Victim Assistance Support Team is offering emotional support and information on July 31, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Thorncliffe Greenview Community Association and Recreation Centre, with staff, volunteers, and trauma dogs on site. Additional support is available by calling 403-428-8398 or toll-free at 1-888-327-7828.
Is a memorial service planned?
An Islamic community has organized a public memorial service on Thursday, July 30, 2026, shifting an existing prayer service to honour Parker's memory.
