Renewed plea for tips on boy missing in B.C., possibly with unidentified caretaker

Kai Pavlovic, 11, was discovered missing after Burnaby RCMP were asked to conduct a wellness check on him on Sept. 26, 2025. (Handout)

Authorities are renewing their plea for information about an 11-year-old boy who went missing in B.C.’s Lower Mainland, potentially with a caretaker who has yet to be identified.

The RCMP has said Kai Pavlovic’s mysterious disappearance does not yet meet the criteria for issuing an Amber Alert, but that anyone with information on his whereabouts should contact law enforcement immediately.

Burnaby RCMP officers discovered him missing on Sept. 26 after being asked to conduct a wellness check on the boy.

Cpl. Laura Hirst said investigators have spoken with his family and extended family, and have “reason to believe Kai is staying with a caregiver who police are actively working to identify.”

“We believe there are people who know who this caretaker is and where they are located, and we are appealing for them to come forward and speak to police,” said Hirst.

Authorities are also hoping to speak with any parents whose children have shared playdates or extracurricular activities with the missing child, as well as any operators or instructors familiar with him.

The RCMP’s top priority is to find Kai and “confirm his wellbeing,” Hirst said.

Authorities would not confirm any details of the child’s custody, or information contained in an online fundraiser purportedly set up by extended family in New Zealand.

“Kai has been living in Canada and had limited contact with family overseas over the last 12 months,” reads the fundraiser. “Recently, concern for his wellbeing was raised by his deceased father’s family.”

Hirst said she could not comment due to privacy concerns.

The RCMP did share a statement from unnamed family members describing the missing child as “bright, curious and outgoing,” and someone who “loves to climb trees, build forts and learn to sail.”

“He is a friend to all animals and particularly adores horses, cats and dogs,” it continues. “Kai’s family in New Zealand loves him dearly.”

Authorities said they have been working “non-stop” to locate the boy, and asked the public to keep their eyes out for him.

He is described as being approximately 5’ tall with a thin build and brown hair.

Sightings of the child or information on his whereabouts can be reported to Burnaby RCMP at 604-646-9999, or any local police department.