The memory of Michael Dunahee still resonates in the hearts and minds of Greater Victoria residents.
The annual Michael Dunahee Keep the Hope Alive five-kilometre walk/run takes place on Sunday at 10 a.m. at the Esquimalt Recreation Centre. The event is inspired by the four-year-old boy who disappeared from the playground at Blanshard Elementary School on March 24, 1991.
It is being held to raise funds for Child Find B.C. Michael’s family has moved the event to a virtual platform and is inviting those form near and far to participate.
“Please join us once again for this family event in person or from where ever you wish to participate,” says the Facebook event page.
On Friday, the 32nd anniversary of the child’s disappearance, Victoria police issued a news release saying investigators continue to work on the case.
Despite more than 10,000 tips over three decades and of the largest police investigations in Canadian history, the case remains unsolved.
Michael disappeared at approximately 12:30 p.m. from the area of the Blanshard school playground, just a short distance away from his family. Many families and spectators were in the area at the time for a touch football game. An extensive search was launched for Michael, which involved hundreds of volunteers and police from multiple agencies.
In 2021, to mark 30 years since Michael was last seen, investigators released an age-enhanced sketch created by B.C. RCMP forensic sketch artist Cpl. Virginia Bernier showing Michael as he may have appeared at age 34.
Victoria police also launched vicpd.ca/michaeldunaheetips — a dedicated online tip portal. Hundreds of tips have been received and continue to be investigated, police say.
The walk/run is being held from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. from Esquimalt Recreation Centre, 527 Fraser St.
The No. 25 Maplewood/Tillicum bus will be on a detour from 10 a.m. to noon as a result:
- 25 Maplewood: From Admirals left on Esquimalt, back to regular route.
- 25 Tillicum: From Esquimalt, right Admirals, back to regular route.
ldickson@timescolonist.com
