RCMP Arrests Stepfather of Missing Sullivan Children
RCMP have arrested the stepfather of the missing Sullivan children from Pictou County. Daniel Martell, 34, was taken into custody on unrelated charges. His arrest occurred at around 11:30 a.m. on a Monday. He faces serious allegations, including assault, forcible confinement, and sexual assault.
Disappearance of Jack and Lilly Sullivan
The missing children, Jack, 5, and Lilly, 6, were last seen on May 2, 2025, in Lansdowne Station, Nova Scotia. Their mother, Malehya Brooks-Murray, reported that they had wandered away from home. This report led to an extensive search effort that lasted several weeks.
- Last seen: May 2, 2025
- Location: Lansdowne Station, Nova Scotia
- Mother: Malehya Brooks-Murray
- Stepfather: Daniel Martell
Ongoing Investigation
Despite exhaustive searches, RCMP has found no substantial evidence regarding the whereabouts of the children. Items recovered during the search included a child’s T-shirt, a blanket, and a tricycle; however, police state these items are not linked to the children’s disappearance. Cadaver dogs were deployed in the area, but they did not yield any useful leads.
Details from Court Documents
Recently unsealed court documents have shed light on the relationship dynamics between Brooks-Murray and Martell. Allegations of physical abuse emerged during police interviews. Brooks-Murray indicated that Martell occasionally tried to block her movements and even pushed her on one occasion.
Martell, when approached by The Canadian Press, denied all abuse allegations, describing them as part of a narrative to paint him negatively. He claimed, “I never abused Malehya,” and called the situation “absolutely insane.”
Lie Detector Tests Conducted
RCMP have conducted polygraph tests involving key individuals, including Martell and Brooks-Murray. Both tests reportedly indicated that they were truthful in their statements. Additionally, Jack and Lilly’s biological father, Cody Sullivan, took a lie detector test on June 12, which also confirmed his honesty.
- Polygraph results: Martell and Brooks-Murray deemed truthful
- Cody Sullivan’s results: also deemed truthful
- Duration without relationship: 3 years for Cody Sullivan
Current Status of the Case
As of October 2025, the RCMP has reaffirmed that the investigation into the disappearance of Jack and Lilly Sullivan is “not believed to be criminal in nature.” The search for the children continues, but leads have remained elusive.
