A major search was initiated following the disappearance of Claire Bell in June 2025. The search was widely extended to areas in Quebec, starting at Laval, Côteau-du-Lac, and the Canadian border.
As per the police report, Claire was last seen at 9:45 a.m. in LaSalle, which is a borough of Montreal.
At about 3.30 p.m., she was recorded missing by her mother at a souvenir shop in Coteau-du-Lac. That site is about 60 km away, where Claire was initially spotted.
Authorities are actively investigating the six-hour interval and the circumstances surrounding her disappearance.
Who Are Claire Bell’s Parents?
Claire Bell’s parents are Rachel Todd and Matthew Bell. According to Matthew’s Facebook page, the couple got engaged in October 2021 and married in August 2023.
Matthew studied at St. Pius Culinary Academy. Rachel had been working in the restaurant industry, but left her job about two weeks before Claire disappeared.
As per the Montreal Gazette, Rachel has been charged with child abandonment. Principal crime officers are questioning her. Her apartment in LaSalle has been sealed and marked as a protected scene.
Neighbors said the door was bolted shut and that police searched nearby cars and apartments.
Hours before reporting Claire missing, Rachel shared a TikTok video where she appeared holding her daughter. This video was in an intimidating tone and had a caption that implied emotional distress.
On Facebook, Claire’s aunt wrote, asking for help and providing complete information about Claire’s appearance and the last place she was seen.
Where Was Claire Bell Last Seen?
Claire was last spotted at 9.45 a.m. on Newman Boulevard. At 3.30 p.m., she was reported missing in Coteau-du-Lac in a souvenir shop. A search command post was established near the store.
Police are examining the six hours between the moment Claire was last seen and the moment when she was reported missing.
Helicopters, ATVs, and canine units were used to search LaSalle, Coteau-du-Lac, and close to the Ontario border. Another search team rummaged through high grass, forested lands, and fields over an area of 10km on Highway 20.
Claire’s Description and Vehicle Details
Claire is approximately three feet tall and weighs nearly 35 pounds. Her hair and eye color are brown. She was last spotted donning a long-sleeved white shirt, red collar, grey trousers, and no shoes.
The police are also asking for help in locating a grey 2007 Ford Escape. It is a registered vehicle in Quebec, with a license plate number K50 FVE and a “Baby on Board” sticker in the back window.
Those who spotted this car between 9.45 a.m. and 3 pm during the day Claire disappeared are asked to come forth.
Why Was No Amber Alert Issued?
The question that concerns many is why there was no Amber Alert.
Police claimed this case did not fit the particular conditions under which an Amber Alert should be issued in Quebec.
The main rule is that sufficient evidence must be available that the child was abducted and is currently at risk.
Instead, a media alert was issued by the police. They are asking people throughout the entire province to provide information about Claire and be vigilant.
The people of Coteau-du-Lac and those living far and near are asked to check their garages, backyards, sheds, or any places where a small child might be found.
