New sketch of missing N.S. boy Dylan Ehler released on 6th anniversary of disappearance

It’s been six years since Dylan Ehler went missing from the Truro, N.S., area.

Police in Truro, N.S., have released a new age progression sketch of Dylan Ehler on the sixth anniversary of the boy’s disappearance.

The Truro Police Service says the sketch, which was constructed by the Ontario Provincial Police, depicts what Ehler may look like now. The missing boy would be nine years old today.

“A comprehensive and active investigation continues into his disappearance,” said Truro police in a statement on Wednesday.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Dylan’s parents and family. We recognize how difficult these last (six) years have been for them as well as the community.”

Ehler was three years old when he was reported missing on May 6, 2020. Investigators believe he fell into a stream behind his grandmother’s home on Elizabeth Street and was swept away.

“The only evidence that we have so far leads us to the stream,” Truro Police Service Deputy Chief Darrin Smith told CTV News Atlantic on Wednesday, noting it’s still considered a missing persons case.

“There has been no evidence ever in the period of six years to suggest foul play at all.”

Ehler’s grandmother, Dorothy Parsons, previously said she was with the toddler in her backyard when she turned her back to tie up her dog.

“I turn around and he was just gone. Gone. I have no explanation,” Parsons told CTV News in May 2021, on the one-year-anniversary of Ehler’s disappearance.

Multiple searches have been conducted since Ehler’s disappearance, but only his boots have ever been found.

“Hopefully something will break some day,” said Smith.

Police continue to receive tips about the case and urge people with information to come forward – but only if the information is “credible” and not rumours, theories, or social-media speculation.

“Social media has been a problem for us as well throughout the course of this. That has been an issue,” said Smith, noting police have to follow up on all tips received, regardless of credibility.

“You can’t just ignore it … if you’re wrong, that could jeopardize the investigation.”

The Truro Police Service says anyone with a “credible” tip should contact them at 902-895-5351 or Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page