A frantic search is underway in Siletz, Oregon, as authorities and volunteers work around the clock to find 2-year-old Dane Paulsen, who disappeared from his family’s front yard on Saturday, March 1, 2025, around 4:25 p.m. His devastated family is pleading for answers as search teams comb through miles of rugged terrain.
A Sudden Disappearance
Dane was last seen playing outside near his home, a rural property surrounded by thick forests and uneven ground. His mother, Emily Paulsen, had only stepped away for a moment. When she returned, Dane was gone. “It was just a few minutes,” she said, her voice breaking. “He loves to explore, but he always stays close. I don’t understand how this happened.”
Massive Search Effort Underway
The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office has mobilized every available resource, working alongside Oregon State Police, the FBI, and hundreds of volunteers. Search teams have deployed drones, tracking dogs, ATVs, divers, and boats to scan nearly 400 acres of dense forest, steep ravines, and waterways.
Sheriff Curtis Landon urged the public to remain hopeful. “We are doing everything in our power to bring Dane home. We won’t stop until we find him.”
A Community Comes Together
The small town of Siletz has been shaken to its core. Neighbors, some of whom have never met the Paulsen family, have dropped everything to assist in the search. “This is our worst nightmare,” said local volunteer Mike Henderson. “We won’t rest until he’s back where he belongs.”
Despite the outpouring of support, officials have asked that volunteers refrain from searching independently, as it may interfere with tracking efforts. Instead, anyone with information is urged to call the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office at 541-265-0669.
Praying for Dane’s Safe Return
As night falls over the dense Oregon woods, search teams push forward, refusing to give up hope. Dane’s mother clutches his favorite stuffed animal, waiting for news, desperate to hear her little boy’s laughter again.
How You Can Help
- Share Dane’s story on social media
- Report any possible sightings immediately
- Keep an eye out for new updates from local authorities