Search Continues for Missing Oregon Toddler Dane Paulsen After Two Weeks

SILETZ, Ore. — Authorities continue to search for 2-year-old Dane Paulsen, who disappeared while playing in his front yard on March 1. As of March 11, the search has entered its second week, with an emphasis on the Siletz River where evidence suggests the child was at the water’s edge before his disappearance.

Dane was last spotted around 4:25 p.m. on March 1 at his home, situated about 100 feet from the Siletz River, according to the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office. The sheriff’s office stated there is currently no evidence of foul play in the case.

Search efforts have mobilized nearly 150 volunteers, alongside multiple agencies, including the Oregon State Police and the FBI. Teams have scoured 382 acres and covered 283 miles, employing boats, divers, drones, and specially trained search dogs. “We have received information regarding a white van seen in the area two weeks before Dane’s disappearance, but we have no evidence linking this vehicle to the case,” Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office announced on March 10.

The sheriff’s office confirmed that while the search area has been concentrated on the river, the search for Dane is ongoing and includes both ground and aerial support. “Based on the evidence available, our focus will now be on specific locations where the child might have traveled,” said Sheriff Adam Shanks.

Authorities highlighted the challenges faced in exhaustive searches, particularly due to the dense underbrush that may conceal a small child. “Even with specialized search equipment, we may miss someone in a thick area,” the sheriff’s office stated. “Dane is described as friendly and fearless, comfortable around strangers and the water, but he cannot swim.”

Community volunteers have played an essential role in the search, often expressing emotional ties as some have children of similar ages. “We just want this mama to get some closure,” said volunteer Tasha Marie, who has been searching alongside Dane’s family.

As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information regarding Dane’s whereabouts to contact the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office at 541-265-0669. The search effort remains unwavering, with the sheriff’s office reaffirming their commitment: “We express our deepest empathy for Dane’s family. Our teams are working tirelessly to bring him home.”