Port Alberni RCMP have made two arrests in the 2018 murder of a six-year-old boy.

RCMP announced on May 6, 2022 that 28-year-old Rykel Frank (n茅e Charleson) and 29-year-old Mitchell Frank of Port Alberni have been charged with first-degree murder of Dontay-Patrick Lucas.

The six-year-old Nuu-chah-nulth boy died at home on March 13, 2018 in Port Alberni. At the time, RCMP labelled his death as suspicious.

Earlier this year, Lucas鈥檚 family held a vigil and expressed their frustration that an arrest had not taken place yet.

RCMP say the investigation continues.

鈥淭hese investigations are difficult for everyone involved, and we understand the length of time that it has taken to get to this point has been challenging for the community,鈥� said Insp. Eric Rochette, Officer in Charge for the Port Alberni RCMP.

Lucas鈥檚 father, Patrick Lucas, posted on Facebook after the announcement of the arrests, thanking the community for their support throughout the investigation.

鈥淚t鈥檚 been a long four years coming,鈥� he said. 鈥淥ur voices and prayers have been answered.鈥�

More information from the RCMP is expected to be released on Monday morning, May 9, 2022.