Volunteers Needed As Search Continues For Dane

The search for 2-year old Dane Paulson is still active and continuing. According to Siletz Mayor Willie Worman, the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office has moved ground searchers off the property at the Elks campground in Siletz. They will periodically come back for several weeks. The marine team and partners are scheduled to be on the river every day for the foreseeable future. They have a 2 drone team on the water. One team searchng surface water and a team that has an underwater drone. The focus today 3/7/25 will be from Strome park up to the original incident site. Volunteers are encouraged to continue checking in with ground searches.

In the last Lincoln County Sheriff's Office update, investigators continue to follow up on informational tips. Upon notification of Dane’s disappearance on the afternoon of March 1st members of the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, Siletz Valley Fire, Oregon State Police, Newport Police Department, Lincoln City Police Department, and Lincoln County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue responded to the scene. Investigators interviewed Dane’s parents and emergency personnel immediately began searching the residential property and surrounding areas.

In addition to ground searches, aerial drones with thermal imaging also allowed responders to widen the initial (and ongoing) search. Officials, Sheriff’s Office volunteers from Search and Rescue and the Mounted Posse searched the property and surrounding area. This search included the home and structures, neighboring properties, nearby roads, rough terrain including forested areas with thick, dense brush, and portions of the Siletz River and riverbanks. In addition to official agencies and their volunteer groups, community volunteers showed up in mass to help search. The Elks will no longer be used as a gathering space for volunteers. Those wishing to continue the search are asked to park near 20738 Siletz Hwy.

All materials have been moved to the family's house. Please be mindful that there will be people checking you in at the gate.

• If community members choose to continue their search (in addition to emergency responders), keep these things in mind:

  • Please avoid areas with active searching by emergency responders or certified personnel.

  • Do not search during the night or dark hours.

  • Carry safety equipment such as first aid kit, extra water and food, whistle, flashlight, etc.

  • Dress appropriately for the weather and terrain. Wear layers, bring waterproof clothes, and sturdy shoes.

  • If you are choosing to search the river or riverbanks, wear a life jacket.

  • Before you set out, have a safety plan in place. Let someone know exactly where you are headed and when you will return.

  • Remember that private property cannot be searched without updated permission from the owner.