Waterloo Region, ON- Waterloo Regional Police continue to evaluate dangerous conditions along the Nith River and are urging members of the community to use extreme caution should they choose to search the area for missing boy Robbie Reiner. At the present time, the area is experiencing high water levels, a significant amount of floating debris and large chunks of ice. Anyone venturing too near the riverbanks is placing their personal safety at high risk.
Over the past few days, officers in the area have observed some private citizens attempting to conduct their own search. One such person, the owner of a private company, dresses in a manner that may cause some to believe he is, or is affiliated with a police agency. Waterloo Regional Police would like to advise the community that our Service is not affiliated or working with any private person or company in the search and, therefore, urge members of the community to use their own good judgement about the search efforts and their personal safety.
“We appreciate the efforts made by all community members, both private citizens and those representing private companies. I know the Reiner family also appreciates these efforts but I’m sure they are also concerned with the safety of the searchers,†said Deputy Chief Kevin Chalk. “Public safety is our top priority and members of the public are urged to seek advice and direction only from clearly identifiable and authorized police and fire officials in relation to search operations.â€
Families are urged to review water safety with their children and encourage everyone to keep a safe distance from area waterways.
Once conditions improve, Waterloo Regional Police and our Emergency Services partner agencies will resume the search for Robbie Reiner. In the meantime, anyone having information that could help narrow down the search area is encouraged to contact police.
The Waterloo Regional Police Service continues to work in partnership with the Grand River Conservation Authority to help keep the community apprised of unsafe conditions. For high water and flood awareness information, please visit our website at www.wrps.on.ca or www.grandriver.ca