A police chief says authorities “do not anticipate a positive outcome” in the search for three Michigan brothers who have been missing since their father’s attempted suicide.

Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks told reporters Tuesday that searchers are continuing to look for 9-year-old Andrew, 7-year-old Alexander and 5-year-old Tanner Skelton. The boys last were seen on Thanksgiving in their father’s backyard.

Weeks says the assessment is based on information including statements from  39-year-old John Skelton. He says no decision has been made about whether to bring charges in the disappearance.

Police say John Skelton attempted suicide on Friday and is being treated at a hospital. He has not been ruled out as a suspect.

Morenci is about 75 miles southwest of Detroit.