Chilliwack MP Mark Strahl introduces motion to expand criteria for Amber Alerts to include adults

CHILLIWACK — Chilliwack-Hope MP Mark Strahl has introduced a motion in the House of Commons that could pave the way for a missing adult alert system across all of Canada.

According to a news release from his office, Strahl made a statement Monday (Nov. 27) honouring Chilliwack resident Alina Durham for her continued advocacy of missing person alerts for adults.

“I rise to pay tribute to my constituent, Alina Durham, for her tireless efforts to bring attention to the issue of adult missing persons,” Strahl’s statement read. “Her daughter Shaelene Keeler Bell was reported missing on January 30, 2021. Tragically, Shaelene’s body was found several months later in the Fraser River. Alina has used her personal tragedy to draw attention to a gap in Canada’s missing persons protocols. Right now, Amber Alerts are only issued if the victim is under the age of 18. There is no Amber Alert system for adults.”

Strahl’s private bill calls on the federal government to collaborate with provinces and territories to see a nationwide Amber Alert for people 18 years and older.