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Nathan O'Brien case: Police search for evidence on Douglas Garland's property

Calgary police once again searched for evidence on the property of the man accused of murdering Nathan O'Brien, 5, and his grandparents, Alvin and Kathy Liknes.

It's unclear what led police back to Douglas Garland's property, but investigators were seen on Sunday taking photos and loading what looked like boxes into unmarked vans at the rural property northeast of Airdrie, AB.

Plainclothes and uniformed officers, including members of the tactical team, combed through the property all day. They also searched the area and buildings around the home.

Neighbours say Garland's parents have been living in their home since police held it for several weeks back in the summer.

"Everybody is just looking for some conclusion in this," said Jim Nevada, who lives nearby.

"[Police] were here for what, almost two months? It was crazy around here and we were just finally starting to get back to normal."

The RCMP were also on the scene.

Police said investigators were searching the property to collect additional evidence to support the upcoming court case. They do not have any new information about the family's location.

Nathan and his grandparents were last seen at a home in the southwest Calgary community of Parkhill on June 29, 2014. Their bodies have not been recovered, but Calgary police say evidence indicates all three are dead.

Garland was arrested and charged with two counts of first-degree murder and one count of second-degree murder last July.

As the search for answers on and around the Garland property continues, Nevada said the neighbourhood remains on edge and is saddened by the whole situation.

"I feel sorry for both sides … that kid seemed pretty special."

Garland's preliminary trial is set to begin in May.