French authorities have launched a major search operation for a four-year-old boy who vanished from his home in a small Alpine village, after his mother was found dead in their apartment.
The tragic discovery was made in the picturesque commune of Saint-Jorioz, located near the popular tourist town of Annecy in southeastern France. Emergency services were called to the scene on Tuesday afternoon after concerns were raised about the welfare of the residents.
Mother Found Deceased in Family Home
Upon arrival at the property, police made the grim discovery of the boy's mother deceased inside the apartment. The circumstances surrounding her death are currently under investigation by French authorities.
The missing child, identified only as four-year-old Maël, was last seen wearing a light-coloured T-shirt, dark shorts and hiking shoes. He has distinctive shoulder-length dark hair and is described as being approximately one metre tall.
Large-Scale Search Operation Underway
A substantial search effort involving multiple police units, helicopters, and specialist search teams has been deployed across the Alpine region. The operation is focusing on the wooded areas surrounding Saint-Jorioz and the wider Annecy region.
Local residents have been urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings of the young boy to authorities immediately. Police have established a dedicated emergency number for information related to the case.
Community in Shock
The tight-knit community of Saint-Jorioz has been left reeling by the tragic events. Neighbours described the family as quiet and kept largely to themselves.
Local authorities have appealed for anyone with information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to come forward as the search for young Maël continues through the night.
