The case of two missing children in Nova Scotia, Canada, has gripped the local community as their mother, Malehya Brooks-Murray, pleads for answers over a year after their disappearance. Six-year-old Lilly Sullivan and her four-year-old brother Jack Sullivan were last seen on May 2, 2025, at their family home in Nova Scotia. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have been investigating their case but, as of yet, have not classified it as criminal.
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In a recent joint interview with CBC and The Globe and Mail, Brooks-Murray, 28, expressed her frustration with the slow progress of the investigation. “I don’t feel I owe people anything. If anything, I’m owed answers and to have my children back to me,” she stated, highlighting her desire for more substantial updates from the authorities.
On the morning of their disappearance, Brooks-Murray remembered seeing Lilly briefly before the children played together in another room. When she awoke, to her disbelief, they had vanished without a trace. At the time, the family included Brooks-Murray, her stepfather Daniel Martell, and the couple’s infant daughter. Following a family dispute, Brooks-Murray left their home with her baby, prompted by police advice to ensure their safety.
Despite extensive search efforts, which involved large-scale searches of the surrounding woods and the use of cadaver dogs, investigators have so far failed to uncover any leads. Authorities initially did not find evidence of abduction or foul play, leading to the classification of the case as a missing persons matter. However, officials have hinted that the investigation may evolve into a criminal inquiry should new information come to light.
Court documents recently obtained by CBC included transcripts from interviews conducted with Brooks-Murray. In these discussions, investigators scrutinised her past relationship with Martell, examining allegations of physical and emotional abuse. Brooks-Murray reported instances where Martell attempted to physically restrain her and take her phone when she needed to contact her family. Martell has stated that while he and Brooks-Murray had arguments, he maintained there was no physical violence.
Although Brooks-Murray and Martell are no longer together, RCMP Staff Sergeant Rob McCamon confirmed that the dynamics of their relationship remain under investigation. The focus appears to be on understanding the circumstances surrounding the event leading to the children’s disappearance.
In light of the continuing uncertainty and lack of progress, Brooks-Murray has taken a proactive approach to cope with the situation. She has engaged in creative activities, such as art and making keychains displaying her children’s faces, as a form of remembrance. To further raise awareness about Lilly and Jack’s case, she took part in a Canada Day parade in Westville, Nova Scotia, carrying a sign and wearing a sweatshirt that read “mommy.”
The emotional toll of the disappearance is evident, as Brooks-Murray shared that she sleeps with her children’s beloved stuffed animals. “I have dreams about them coming home and I believe it,” she said, indicating her steadfast hope for their return.
Authorities continue to offer a substantial reward of approximately £107,000 (CAD 150,000) for anyone with actionable information about the siblings’ whereabouts. The provincial government has reiterated its commitment to solving this distressing case, and the community remains focused on finding answers.
As the search for Lilly and Jack goes on, Brooks-Murray’s dedication to keeping their names in the public eye serves as a poignant reminder of the need for compassion and vigilance regarding missing children. She maintains that her longing for answers is genuine and that she simply wants her children to come home.
The case highlights the broader issues of child safety and the unending emotional strain on families faced with such heart-wrenching situations. As the community supports Brooks-Murray in her quest for answers, the hope remains that Lilly and Jack will one day be found safe and sound.