Search Efforts Intensify for Missing Southern Oregon Kindergarten Teacher

Idlewild Park, Oregon– Douglas County Search and Rescue teams continue to comb through rugged terrain in the ongoing effort to locate Rachel Merchant-Ly, a kindergarten teacher from Glide Elementary School, whose vehicle was discovered crashed into the North Umpqua River.

Merchant-Ly, reported missing on Thursday, February 29th, after failing to arrive at school, has prompted an extensive search operation led by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO). Initial investigation by a DCSO deputy uncovered signs of a motor vehicle crash near milepost 41 on Highway 138E.

On Friday, March 1, 2024, Merchant-Ly’s vehicle was retrieved from the North Umpqua River, yet she was not found inside, deepening the mystery surrounding her disappearance.

In the continued pursuit to find Merchant-Ly, nearly 300 volunteer hours have been dedicated to search efforts, employing a variety of methods including drones, ground teams, and K9 units. The Sheriff’s Office Marine Patrol has also conducted thorough water searches along the river.

“We all want to find Mrs. Merchant-Ly and return her to her family,” Sheriff John Hanlin expressed. “Our deputies remain in constant communication with her family, providing updates on our efforts. We are committed to utilizing every available resource to achieve our mission,” he affirmed.

*Rachel Merchant-Ly Courtesy of Jamie Du*

Beyond the collaborative efforts of DCSO and Search and Rescue volunteers, the community has rallied behind the cause. Local rafting guides and groups have launched their expeditions in a collective bid to aid in the search. Additionally, community members traversing the North Umpqua Trail and the adjacent highway have been urged to remain vigilant and report any pertinent information.

“As always, this community demonstrates its unwavering support for one another,” Sheriff Hanlin remarked, emphasizing the solidarity in times of adversity.

As the weather transitions towards spring, the Sheriff’s Office urges individuals engaging in recreational activities in the vicinity to remain cognizant of Merchant-Ly’s disappearance and to report any findings that may contribute to resolving this missing person case.

Authorities say any information relevant to the search efforts, individuals are encouraged to contact the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.