The disappearance of Lilly and Jack Sullivan remains unresolved as a new update brings attention to a specific moment during the investigation and fresh statements from family members. Daniel Martell, the children’s stepfather, says police asked him directly, “Did you k them?” during a polygraph examination. The disclosure has sparked renewed discussion, even as authorities and family members urge caution against drawing conclusions.
According to Daniel Martell, the question was posed during a polygraph administered as part of the broader investigation. Polygraph examinations are commonly used by investigators as tools to guide inquiry rather than as definitive proof. Law enforcement agencies, including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, have repeatedly stated that polygraph results do not determine guilt or innocence and are not typically admissible as standalone evidence.
Daniel’s account focuses on the phrasing of the question rather than any outcome of the test. Police have not publicly characterized the content of the polygraph or its results, maintaining standard practice of limiting disclosure in active cases. Investigators have also not indicated that the question itself signals an accusation, noting that direct questions can be used to establish baselines or eliminate possibilities during investigative interviews.
At the same time, the children’s paternal grandmother and aunt have spoken publicly, offering their perspective and defending Malehya. Their comments emphasize family context and caution against speculation. They shared thoughts on what they believe may have happened, while stopping short of making claims about facts not established by authorities.
Family statements in missing-children cases can play a complex role. On one hand, they humanize those affected and provide context; on the other, they can be interpreted in multiple ways by the public. Legal experts often stress that such statements are expressions of belief rather than evidence, and that investigations proceed based on verified information.
The emergence of this update underscores a recurring challenge in high-profile cases: distinguishing between investigative process and inference. A single question asked during a polygraph does not equate to a conclusion, yet it can quickly shape public perception when shared without full context.
Authorities have continued to limit public comment, emphasizing that the investigation remains active. They have not confirmed details about who last saw the children, nor have they expanded on the scope of interviews conducted. This restraint aligns with efforts to protect investigative integrity and avoid compromising potential leads.
The family’s decision to speak now may reflect the emotional strain of prolonged uncertainty. As time passes without resolution, relatives often feel compelled to address speculation or defend loved ones against online narratives. The grandmother and aunt’s defense of Malehya highlights how public scrutiny can extend beyond immediate parties.
Observers note that the case currently sits at an intersection of official silence and public discussion. While investigators focus on evidence, online conversations amplify fragments of information. This dynamic can complicate understanding, particularly when procedural elements like polygraph questions are interpreted as conclusions.
For now, officials reiterate that facts — not interpretations — will guide outcomes. Polygraphs, interviews, and family statements are components of a larger process that continues to evolve.
As the search for answers continues, the latest update reframes attention on process rather than proof. The question posed during a polygraph, and the family’s defense of Malehya, add context but do not resolve the central mystery of what happened to Lilly and Jack Sullivan.
