Police address ‘rumors’ in Elijah Vue investigation – NBC Chicago

Editor’s note: The video in the player above is from a previous report on Elijah Vue’s disappearance.

It’s been nearly three months since Wisconsin toddler Elijah Vue disappeared in a mystery that continues to make headlines. However, in a recent update, authorities said that Elijah remains missing, but they wanted to clear up some “rumors” about the case.

In a social media post last week, Capt. Andrew Raatz of the Two River Police Department said the search for Elijah is ongoing, but claims that the department has discouraged a specific group from participating in the search effort are untrue.

“Recently, rumors have been circulating, particularly on social media, that we have not allowed an organization called Midwest EquuSearch to participate in the search efforts. “This is false, misleading and distracts from our efforts to find Elijah,” Raatz said. “We have been in contact with many volunteer search organizations and are working hand in hand to coordinate efforts. In our conversation with EquuSearch, we leveraged their expertise and they confirmed that we are currently leveraging the best technology and resources available.”

Raatz said, “At no time has any local, state or federal agency denied participation in a search by any volunteer organization,” noting that numerous other groups have participated in the massive effort.

“We actively solicited and encouraged the help of volunteers. The reference to previous media releases and news reports is clear evidence of our call for volunteers. “The only limitation on volunteer groups participating in searches is respect for private property, which is the same limitation we have as law enforcement agencies,” Raatz wrote.

EquuSearch Midwest also commented on the post, saying it had “contacted the Two Rivers Police Department regarding Elijah Vue.”

“While we appreciate everyone’s support of our organization’s search capabilities, after discussions with law enforcement, they have used the search efforts and resources that our team would have used,” the group said. “Rest assured that they are continuing the investigation into Elijah’s disappearance and have assured us that they will contact us if our help is needed to bring Elijah home. This is a heartbreaking situation and please do not lose focus because everyone wants Elijah to be brought home.”

Two Rivers police said they remain in contact with Elijah’s family regarding the search.

Efforts to find Elijah recently included searches with canine units and equestrian resources, Raatz said. Investigators are still combing through “an extremely large volume of videos” and data.

Earlier this month, authorities expanded their search for the missing three-year-old, calling for participation in “coordinated and lawful search operations.”

Two Rivers police said investigators found no trace of the toddler after further air searches and inspection of manholes.