Mother of Missing Dillon Falls Victim Speaks Out, Praises Search Efforts, Urges Privacy

Bend, Oregon: The mother of the individual still missing following last weekend’s tragic incident at Dillon Falls has released a public statement through the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, asking for privacy and expressing strong support for the ongoing search and rescue efforts.

The family, whose loved one has not yet been recovered after a group of six went over the falls on Saturday, July 19, issued the statement to address misinformation and clarify their position. According to the Sheriff’s Office, the mother has requested no further contact from media and will not be making additional statements.

“It has come to my attention that there is misinformation circulating about the ongoing search and rescue operations to locate my child. I want to be clear and direct: my family and I have been in close communication with the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and Search & Rescue teams from the very beginning. We are incredibly grateful for their support, professionalism, and unwavering commitment. The efforts of the deputies, staff, and volunteers have gone above and beyond anything we could have hoped for, and we deeply appreciate everything they are doing.”

The mother emphasized the complexity of the operation and voiced trust in the Sheriff’s Office and Search and Rescue teams, asking the public to avoid speculation or spreading false information.

“This search is far more complex than most people realize. Many members of the public do not have full knowledge of the situation, which has led to misunderstandings and assumptions. As the mother of the missing individual, I support the approach and strategy implemented by the Sheriff’s Office and the trained Search & Rescue professionals. I trust the situation is being handled with the utmost care, expertise, and compassion.”

The statement included a specific request directed at a member of the public:

“Out of respect for our family, I ask that people refrain from spreading false information, speculating, or interfering in this process. We especially ask that ‘Juan the Diver’ cease and desist from making further public comments or attempting to participate in the official search. His involvement has not been part of the coordinated response, and we do not want the hard work of these trained professionals questioned or disrupted.”

She concluded the message by reiterating her family’s desire for privacy and gratitude toward those assisting in the operation.

“Our focus remains on bringing our child home. We are not speaking to the media at any time and respectfully ask that no one contacts our immediate family. We are still in the process of notifying relatives who live outside the country, and we ask for privacy and space to navigate this unimaginable situation.

Please continue to support the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and the incredible people and volunteers working tirelessly on this mission. We are releasing this statement to clear the air and move forward without distraction.

Thank you for your understanding and compassion.”

Authorities resumed their search efforts early this week, employing divers, K9 teams, and drone units to scour the Deschutes River near Dillon Falls. As of Wednesday, one person remains unaccounted for.