Search intensifies for missing 3-year-old in Paraguayan Chaco

Search operations have intensified in the Chaco region of Paraguay to locate Khael Valdéz, a 3-year-old boy who has been missing since Friday, October 2. The child was last seen near a poultry house at the Estancia 6 de Octubre in the Presidente Hayes/Boquerón area.

The search involves specialized Search and Rescue teams from the Paraguayan Air Force, the Naval Prefecture, and ground personnel. Aerial support includes a CASA 212 aircraft, a UH-1H helicopter, a Cessna 210, and drones equipped with thermal imaging. Notably, the dog that was accompanying the child, Layla, returned to the ranch on her own.

Prosecutor Lucrecio Cabrera stated that investigators are exploring several leads, including the possibility of an encounter with wildlife. Authorities have requested a verification of a nearby water hole due to reports of yacarés (caimans) in the area. While a man, Walter Correa Pesoa, was detained for questioning, he has denied any involvement, and prosecutors noted there is currently no concrete suspicion against him.