Massive Search Continues for Missing Oregon 2-Year-Old Dane Paulsen

Siletz, Oregon– Authorities continue an extensive search for 2-year-old Dane Paulsen, who was reported missing from his residence near Milepost 21 on Highway 229, north of Siletz, on Saturday afternoon.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office received the report at approximately 4:25 p.m. after Dane, who had been playing in the front yard, was found missing. At the time, he was out of sight of his parents.

Initial reports noted the presence of an unknown adult male and a vehicle near a bridge close to the residence about 30 minutes before the disappearance. However, following a community tip and further investigation, authorities have located the individual and the vehicle, determining they are no longer a point of interest.

Ongoing Search and Investigation

Search efforts remain active, with multiple teams involved. Authorities have deployed Search and Rescue (SAR) teams, the Sheriff’s Mounted Posse, community volunteers, marine units, and divers to search the area, including the nearby river. The Lincoln County Major Crime Team and the FBI are assisting with investigative leads.

As of now, there is no evidence suggesting criminal involvement. Dane’s disappearance does not meet the criteria for an Amber Alert, but updates are being shared through FlashAlert and social media.

Dane is described as friendly and fearless, with an interest in water and vehicles. He is comfortable around strangers but cannot swim.

Resources Deployed

In the first 24 hours of the search, authorities and volunteers covered 283 miles and searched 382 acres. Resources deployed include:

• 88 Certified Search and Rescue Members

• 40 Investigators

• 138 Community Volunteers

• 6 Human Trailing K9s

• 4 Drones

• 4 Divers

• 4 Watercraft

Agencies assisting in the effort include the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, Lincoln City Police Department, Newport Police Department, FBI, Siletz Valley Fire, and multiple county sheriff’s offices and SAR units. The FBI’s Victim Services Division is providing support to the family.

Community Assistance and Next Steps

Authorities encourage community members to resume search efforts in daylight and check in at the designated staging area at Elks Toketee Illahee Campground (20590 Siletz Hwy, Siletz, OR 97380).

Anyone with information relevant to Dane’s disappearance is urged to call the tip line at 541-265-0669.

Officials express gratitude for the community’s continued support and efforts to bring Dane home. Authorities say the search remains ongoing.

Medford Alert will continue to monitor this search and provide official updates as they become available.