Tip Of The Week For The Week Of March 31, 2025 - Spring Safety (Photo) -03/27/25

SPRING SAFETY  
 

With the beginning of spring, many find themselves “spring cleaning” and spending more time outdoors. Spring is a great time to review a safety checklist for your home and complete a few updates that could save your life.

Smoke Alarms

1. Smoke alarms save lives – if they are powered by a fresh battery. Test smoke alarm batteries monthly and replace the battery at least once a year. Anytime the alarm makes a "chirping" sound, replace the batteries immediately.

2. Smoke alarms should be located in every bedroom and in the common areas on each floor of a home. Mount them at least 10 feet from the stove to reduce false alarms, less than 12 inches from the ceiling, and away from windows, doors, and ducts.

3. Smoke alarms can be interconnected wirelessly which means when one sounds, they all sound. This is a quick way to notify everyone in a home if there is a fire.

4. When installing or replacing smoke alarms, purchase and install new alarms.

5. Practice how your family will react if smoke alarms go off and consider how that looks at different times through the day or at night. Do not forget to plan your escape from each room and include pets in the process.

6. The National Fire Protection Association has additional resources on smoke alarm safety.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

1. Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odorless gas, that can kill you. Anything that burns fuel can potentially become a source of carbon monoxide. CO detectors should be installed in a central location outside each bedroom and on every level of the home.

2. Similar to smoke alarms, test CO detectors’ batteries monthly and replace them at least once a year or sooner if needed.

3. Consider interconnecting the detectors to alert the entire household at once.

4. Make sure vents for your gas appliances (fireplace, dryer, stove, furnace, etc.) are free and clear of snow and debris.

5. Only use gas powered grills and generators outside and away from doors, window, or air intakes.

Household Emergency Plan

Every household needs an emergency plan, especially in the event of a natural disaster or other catastrophic event. Take time to create and review that plan with family, household members, and any neighbors that may have a part in the plan. Consider how your household will react to different emergencies, plan for evacuation routes and alternative routes, and review your emergency supplies. Remember, disasters can strike at any time. Consider what your actions will be if something happens at work, school, the grocery store, and in other areas you frequent.

Emergency plan necessities:

1. A communications plan to outline how your family/household members will contact each another and where you will meet if you need to evacuate.

2. A shelter-in-place plan. This is often necessary during events where outside air is contaminated and unsafe. Remember to prepare supplies for sealing windows, doors, and air vents with plastic sheeting.

3. An evacuation plan with various routes and destinations. If your household has access and functional needs, pets, livestock, or expensive equipment, plan on evacuating sooner so there is more time to safely leave the area. Before there is a disaster, research what friends, family, or hotels can accommodate your pets and livestock during an emergency.

4. A home and car emergency kit. Your emergency kit should include at least one gallon of water per day for each person, at least a 3-day* supply of non-perishable food, flashlight or headlamp and batteries, first aid kit, filter mask, plastic sheeting and duct tape, and medicines. *On the Oregon coast, it is recommended that households have enough supplies to be self-sufficient for at least 3-weeks. Unable to prepare 3-weeks of supplies? Some emergency supplies are still better than no emergency supplies.

5. A plan and supplies for your household’s unique needs. Don’t forget to plan for special circumstances such as mobility challenges, medical conditions, allergies, and other things that impact your household’s comfort, health, and safety.

Be prepared, not scared. Visit Ready.gov for a complete list and other tips for making your family’s emergency plan.

For more information and tips visit our website at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and like us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon.

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Planned Law Enforcement Training - Newport Middle School - Spring Break 2025 -03/23/25

Tip Of The Week For The Week Of March 24, 2025 - Spring Break Safety (Photo) -03/20/25

SPRING BREAK SAFETY TIPS

For many schools, Spring Break is here! Spring break usually means time with friends and family, a rest from school, and travel. Regardless of how your household is spending spring break, there are some ways you can make your holiday safer while still having fun.

You already know the basics, stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and avoid alcohol and other substances. If you do lawfully partake, be responsible and consume in moderation. If you are traveling, remember to properly prepare and make plans to keep yourself and your companions safe. Below are some tips for overall Spring Break safety.

Plan Ahead

• Share your plans with loved ones including:

  • Arrival or departure dates.

  • Locations and contact information for where you are staying.

  • Who you are travelling and/or staying with.

• Update travel emergency supplies before heading out.

• Secure important documents like your passport and other ID.

Health and Safety

• Practice outdoor safety:

  • Wear sunscreen and eye protection.

  • Seek shade and cooler temperatures in hot climates.

  • Avoid cooling off in cold bodies of water. Drowning and/or hypothermia are more likely to occur when outdoor temperatures are warm and the water is cold.

  • Wear life jackets and avoid alcohol or other substances while boating, swimming, and during other water activities.

• Practice social responsibility:

  • Be considerate of others. Try talking out conflicts respectfully if issues arise.

  • Don’t drink or use substances and drive.

  • Remember the rules of consent. If someone does not want to drink, have sex, or participate in another activity, be respectful and don’t pressure them to do so.

  • Use the buddy system. Travel with people you trust and do not leave someone behind or with strangers.

Don’t forget your pets:

• If travelling with your fury, feathery, or scaly companion, don’t forget to bring emergency supplies for them.

• Keep their collars with your updated contact information and their license information on them. This can help you reunite with your pets sooner.

• Be mindful of temperatures during activities or if you must leave pets unattended.

• Have a backup pet sitter or emergency contact in case something happens before you can get back home to them.

Spring Break can mean lasting memories with your friends. It can also mean tragedy and increased accidents. As the weather continues to get nicer and there are more opportunities to be outdoors, remember to put safety first to protect yourself and those around you.

For more information and tips visit our website at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and like us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon.

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03.13.25 - Talking Points From Media Briefing And Questions Answered (Photo) -03/13/25

TALKING POINTS AND QUESTIONS ANSWERED FROM MEDIA BRIEFING

Below are the talking points from today’s media briefing. At the end of the talking points there are also questions that were submitted along with more information.

Talking Points

PIO Palma: Good afternoon and thank you for attending our Media Briefing and update on the search for Dane Paulsen. I am Jess Palma, the Public Information Officer for the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office. Today I am joined by Sheriff Adam Shanks and Sergeant Nick Vaille.

Before we begin, please take this time to silence any cell phones, radios, or other devices that may create a disturbance. After our speakers share their statements, we will be answering questions that have been previously submitted by members of the media.

The last 12 days have been emotional and the intense search efforts have taken a toll on our teams and community, but most of all, on Dane’s family. As responders and community members, our hearts are heavy, but we know it can’t compare to how his family is feeling and what they are going through.

Before I invite Sheriff Shanks to share his statement, I have a brief summary of the search and investigation for you.

Again, I want to be very mindful of how this situation is impacting Dane’s family and our close community. I also want to acknowledge that our briefing has sensitive details that may can be- upsetting.

On Saturday, March 1, 2025, at approximately 4:25 PM the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office was notified of a missing 2-year-old male, Dane Paulsen. At the time of his disappearance, Dane was reported to be playing in the yard of his residence located near milepost 21 on Siletz River Highway in Siletz, Oregon.

Upon notification of Dane’s disappearance, 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.
 

This search included the family home, yard, 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 ground searches, aerial drones with thermal imaging also allowed responders to widen the search.
 

A gold car was seen in the area before Dane went missing and was initially listed as a vehicle of interest. Between law enforcement and community tips, the vehicle and driver were located on March 2nd. After officials thoroughly interviewed and investigated both the driver and car, they were found to be unrelated to Dane’s disappearance.

In addition to official agencies and their volunteer groups, emergent volunteers, also known as community volunteers, showed up in mass to help search. The Elks Toketee Illahee Campground Host volunteered to organize community members to help lead additional efforts from Sunday, March 2nd through Tuesday, March 4th. After this time, community volunteers continued to organize and search on their own in addition to the ongoing search efforts by officials.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and partnering agencies had watercraft searching the river beginning the morning of Sunday, March 2^nd through March 11^th when Dane was recovered. Divers began searching the river on Monday, March 3^rd and remained active through Tuesday, March 4^th. Search leaders were coordinating additional resource requests to ensure divers could resume underwater searches in the coming days.

After 3 full days of search and investigation, all evidence was pointing to the Siletz River. This evidence included the surrounding land being as thoroughly searched as possible, leads from scent tracking dogs which tracked Dane’s scent down to the river, and shoe prints comparable to Dane’s size down at the river’s edge. On March 4^th, this evidence led responders to primarily focus search efforts on the Siletz River.
 

Investigators continued to pursue leads by interviewing, investigating, and following up on community tips. Throughout this investigation and search, our teams utilized additional personnel with specialized training and equipment.
 

During the search and investigation, Diver Juan Heredia with Angels Recovery Dive Team connected with Dane’s family. Using information provided by our team and with the help of a local river guide, Juan began his search.
 

On March 11^th, at approximately 11:13am, Juan located a small child in the river downstream of where official divers had paused their search. Multiple Sheriff’s Office Responders immediately dispatched to the scene, including the Marine team that was actively searching the river. After confirming the child was Dane Paulsen and ensuring Dane’s family was informed, our office then notified our community and media.

The Lincoln County Medical Examiner’s Office was notified and responded to the scene, they transported Dane to the State Medical Examiner’s Office where an autopsy was completed on March 12th. Results from this autopsy confirmed Dane’s cause of death was drowning. There was no evidence that indicated additional trauma to his body.
 

At this time no criminal charges have been filed regarding the death of Dane Paulsen. The investigation is ongoing. As is standard with all death investigations, the Sheriff’s Office is working in coordination with the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office to review this case in its entirety.

Now that I have shared a high-level overview of the investigation and search, I invite Sheriff Shanks to share his statement.   
 

Sheriff Shanks:

Good afternoon, I am Sheriff Adam Shanks. Thank you again for joining us during this incredibly tough time. Dane’s disappearance has been absolutely heartbreaking. Recovering his body has given his family some closure and answers, but I know the grief and processing of this tragedy is ongoing and will be overwhelmingly difficult.
 

Support for the search for Dane has been far-reaching, to include responders and volunteers from all over Oregon and even other states. In a moment, Sgt. Nick Vaille will share some additional details about search operations and procedures, but first I would like to share more about how Dane was found.  
 

Dane was found in the Siletz River approximately 3 miles downstream from the family’s property. This area of river had been surface searched several times by multiple watercraft operated by our first responders as well as community volunteers. Daily boat operations continued through the day Dane was found.
 

Additionally, our initial dive operations were conducted over a two-day period on March 3rd and 4^th, two days after Dane’s disappearance. 22 Divers from multiple Sheriff’s Offices and Search & Rescue teams had searched an approximate 2-mile stretch of the Siletz River beginning from the property where Dane went missing, moving downstream.
 

These areas were determined to be the highest probability areas, meaning they were deemed the most likely place Dane would be found based on several factors such as river height, flow and speed of current, the time frame Dane had been missing, and body composition.
 

On March 11, 2025 Juan Heredia with Angels Recovery Dive Team arrived on scene as a volunteer to assist in the search for Dane. Sheriff’s Office personnel briefed Juan's boat operator, a local river guide, on the areas divers had already searched. Using this information, the river guide escorted Juan onto the river where he began searching areas downstream from where divers had thoroughly combed.
 

Juan located Dane under water approximately three river miles from the point of his disappearance. We are very grateful for Juan’s assistance in locating Dane. We are also incredibly grateful for our communities continued support and service throughout this response. Demonstrating their commitment and care for our community, partnering agencies and community volunteers dedicated their time and resources to help bring Dane home.

I will now invite Sergeant Nick Vaille to provide some further details on the investigation and search operations.
 

Sergeant Vaille:

Good afternoon, I am Sergeant Nick Vaille. Over the last two weeks, I shared in the immense responsibility of leading the investigation and search teams involved in the emergency response to this tragedy. As a leader in the search for Dane, I can tell you that our teams, our community, and indeed much of our country are deeply saddened at the profound loss of Dane’s life.

Missing person cases are often complex, involving large areas, multiple states or jurisdictions, and tangled webs of circumstances surrounding the disappearance. The responsibility for investigating any missing person case is immense within our office, but when the person missing is a 2-year-old boy like Dane and the search area involves terrain like our rugged, coastal valleys, the stakes are even higher and the complications are multiplied.

To meet the needs of a moment such as this, our Office quickly transitioned staffing to provide for 24-hour search and investigation operations, utilizing our Administrative team, Patrol and Investigation Divisions, Marine and Community Service Divisions, Emergency Management, the Sheriff’s Mounted Posse, and, not least of all, the Lincoln County Search and Rescue Team.
 

We also mobilized our partner resources, including the FBI, the Police Departments of Newport and Lincoln City, multiple divisions of the Oregon State Police, Siletz Valley Fire, Mary’s Peak Search and Rescue, the Corvallis Mountain Rescue Unit, Region 3 K9, the Sheriff’s Offices of Benton, Clackamas, Coos, Crook, Lane, Multnomah, and Tillamook Counties, and hundreds of volunteers from within and outside our Lincoln County community, including river guides with expert local knowledge. We are humbled by the spirit of service displayed by each of these partners. They travelled from their communities to help find a missing piece of ours as they searched, logging nearly 700 miles on foot and extensive lengths of the Siletz River.
 

Detectives combed through hundreds of community tips from in person contacts to social media posts and messages. Law Enforcement has conducted hundreds of interviews, including those of Dane’s family and members of his community. Investigators continue to finalize documentation in preparation for review by the District Attorney’s Office; a standard practice in any death investigation.
 

Resolved as we were to find Dane, our investigation and the evidence available all pointed to the Siletz River. River searches, such as this, are dynamic, rapidly evolving, and dangerous for everyone involved. Complications, such as water temperature, speed of current, and fixed or moving debris influence search operations on a continuous basis. Further variables, such as the size of body, length of submersion, and clothing, all impact the timeline before a person may resurface. In this case, we utilized multiple water resources, including surface water searchers, water scent canines, aerial and under water drones, underwater sonar, and divers to plan daily search operations on the river in hopes of bringing Dane home to his family and loved ones.
 

On the day of March 11^th, Dane was located in about 8 feet of water in the Siletz River by Juan Heredia, of the Angels Recovery Dive Team, about one mile from our most recent dive operation. Juan is the embodiment of that same spirit of service that had humbled us over our 10-day operation. His compassion for others and a willingness to give of himself to our community helped bring closure to the Dane’s family.
 

Questions and Answers

• There have been many questions about whether there is any criminal activity or if Dane’s parents have been cleared of any charges.

  • At this time no criminal charges have been filed regarding the death of Dane Paulsen. The investigation is ongoing, and the Sheriff’s Office is working in coordination with the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office to review this case in its entirety. This is standard practice for any death investigation. 

• How were search areas prioritized, including how far divers searched in the river? 

  • Information surrounding Dane’s disappearance, evidence found through search and investigation efforts and recommendations based on Robert Kester’s Lost Person Behavior manual helped responders identify the areas of highest probability for finding Dane. Search operations remained dynamic, and the areas of focus adapted based on search and investigation developments.

• In addition to seeing information on community pages about Dane being located, we’ve heard there was a 911 call before the Sheriff’s Office released this information. Why wasn’t the information immediately available?  Will this 911 call be released?

  • As with all deaths, a few things need to happen before we can release information. We must first confirm the deceased is the person we expect it to be, and we have to notify the next of kin. In this case, we needed to confirm the child was Dane and ensure his parents were informed before releasing any public information. 

  • There are not currently plans to release the 911 call made reporting the discovery of Dane. Sheriff’s Office personnel were notified by the river guide when Juan discovered Dane’s body and immediately responded to the scene.  

• How long was Dane left alone prior to his disappearance? Who was home and what were they doing? How did he get into the river?

  • Before his disappearance, Dane was reported to be playing out of site in his yard. Evidence suggests he wandered down to the river. We are not able to share additional details at this time.

• What was Dane’s cause of death and are there any sign of assault?

  • The autopsy results determined Dane’s cause of death was drowning. There were not signs of additional trauma to his body.

• Is there anything that the community can do to help Dane’s family? What about support for others that are affected?

  • From the information shared with our teams from the family, they would like privacy as they process this tragedy. They have also been connected with the FBI’s support resources. 

  • Our community is still processing this incredible heartbreak. If you are worried about someone, reach out to check on them, offer support and resources, or connect them with professional help when needed. Empathy and compassion are so important during these times.

• Are there any planned memorial services or gatherings for community members to attend?  

  • We do not have specific details to share regarding planned memorials or other gatherings. Lincoln County communities do an incredible job of coming together in tough times. We have seen some community groups and businesses offer support through donations or memorial events.

• Is there an after-action review for this search, especially considering its size and complexity?

  • Every search and rescue operation includes an after-action review of efforts and actions taken. This process allows for the evaluation of strategies used, recommendations for future operations, and an additional opportunity to examine other possible needs.  

• How much has this search and investigation cost?

  • We have not determined the total cost of this investigation and search operations at this time. Our focus was placed on finding Dane, completing investigatory duties, following standard legal processes and requirements, and utilizing recommended search strategies. We’d also like to acknowledge the vast amount of community and agency volunteers and donations.

• The Sheriff's Office extensively searched a significant stretch of the river, using both divers and watercraft. Was Juan Heredia, the diver who found Dane, able to use different search methods or tactics during his search, that allowed him to find Dane relatively quickly?

  • On March 11, 2025 Juan Heredia with Angels Recovery Dive Team arrived on scene as a volunteer to assist in the search for Dane. Sheriff’s Office personnel briefed Juan's boat operator (a local river guide) on the areas divers had already searched. Using information provided by our team, the help of a local river guide, and his specialized skill set, Juan began his search downstream from where divers had thoroughly combed.

• If there are additional updates and developments, how will we be notified? 

  • We will continue to share significant developments through our FlashAert and Facebook pages. We will also be following up on additional questions received from our media partners. 

Media Briefing Scheduled To Provide Updates On Search For Dane Paulsen -03/12/25

Sheriff Shanks and the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office will be providing an in-person update for media partners. The Sheriff’s Office will share a brief overview of the investigation and search efforts, share the latest information, and any anticipated next steps.
 

To ensure a smooth and productive process, we kindly ask media partners to submit their questions in advance. By receiving your inquiries ahead of time, we can address as many topics as possible, minimize redundant questions, and ensure a thorough and informative session. These questions can be emailed to lcsheriff@co.lincoln.or.us.

Updates will be shared after the media briefing for those that are unable to attend in person.

When: Thursday, March 13, 2025 at 12:30pm.

Where: Siletz Valley Grange Hall, 224 N Gaither St, Siletz, OR 97380

RSVP:To help with planning, members of the media are asked to RSVP and submit questions by emailing lcsheriff@co.lincoln.or.us. Media partners interested in attending will need to sign in at the location.
 

Additional updates will be shared via FlashAlert and social media as they become available.

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03.11.25 - Missing Child Dane Paulsen Found Deceased (Photo) -03/11/25

MISSING CHILD DANE PAULSEN FOUND DECEASED

March 11, 2025 – Siletz Oregon

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the discovery of Dane Paulsen, who had been missing since March 1, 2025 around 4:25pm. After an extensive search and investigation by local authorities, along with the help of community volunteers, Dane was found today at approximately 11:13am in the Siletz River approximately 3 miles downstream from the family’s property. Sadly, he was found deceased.

Juan Heredia, with Angels Recovery Dive Team offered his dive services to Dane’s family. After connecting with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Jaun was escorted onto the river by a local river guide and began searching areas of the Siletz River downstream from where Sheriff’s Office drivers had thoroughly combed.  

Sheriff’s Office investigators are currently processing the scene. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is working in partnership with the Lincoln County Medical Examiners Office. As is standard with ongoing investigations, additional details are not available at this time.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office expresses its deepest sympathies to Dane’s family and loved ones. The impact of this loss is felt by the entire community, and we join those grieving this unimaginable tragedy.

"Our thoughts are with the family, who are facing an unbearable sorrow," said Sheriff Adam Shanks. "We are deeply grateful for the support and dedication shown by the search teams and our communities throughout this difficult time, though we wish it was under different circumstances."

We understand that this news is incredibly painful, especially for Dane’s family and those who knew him. Dane’s family has been notified. Out of respect for the family’s privacy during this profoundly difficult time, we ask the public and media to respect their need for space and time to grieve.
 

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Search For Dane Paulsen Update - Search Continues (3/10/25 - 4pm) (Photo) -03/10/25

SEARCH FOR DANE PAULSEN UPDATE – SEARCH CONTINUES
 

3/10/25, 4:00pm – Siletz, Oregon

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and partnering agencies are continuing search operations for Dane Paulsen.

Ongoing search and investigation activities:

• Investigators continue to follow up on leads they discover in addition to informational tips from the community.
• Daily water searches utilizing watercraft with specialized equipment and trained personnel will continue until further notice.
   

Answering some common questions:

• We have received information regarding a white van seen in the area two weeks before Dane’s disappearance. At this time, we do not have evidence linking this vehicle to the ongoing search and investigation.
• We will be providing updates as significant information becomes available. This means we will not be providing daily updates. New information or major updates will be shared through the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office FlashAlert and Facebook page.
• Though the land within the search area has been thoroughly combed, we cannot guarantee the areas are clear. Even with specialized equipment and search K9s, it is possible to miss a small child that may be hidden by thick brush or other visual impairments.
• Due to the thorough coverage of the surrounding area and information provided by investigators and evidence from searchers with specialized training and equipment, search efforts are concentrated on the Siletz River.
• Highly trained personal and specialized equipment remain imperative to this search. Read more about some of the specialized personal and equipment cited in our earlier releases: March 5, 2025 Media Release and March 4, 2025 Talking Points from Community Update
• Some community members continue to search on their own. This is in addition to official search efforts. Searchers need permission from property owners before accessing private property. Searchers also need to prioritize safety (see safety suggestions below).  

How Community Members Can Help:

• To ensure investigators receive information as quickly as possible, please submit all tips to the tip line, not through Facebook. Currently there is no evidence to suggest criminal activity in Dane’s disappearance. We still ask the public to report relevant information to the tip line: 541-265-0669. When sharing information that may help us bring Dane home, be as specific as possible. Note the time, exact location, and get clear photos or videos when possible. 
• Share official updates found on the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office FlashAlert and Facebook page.
• If community members choose to continue their search (in addition to emergency responder searches), keep these things in mind:
  • If you are choosing to search the river or riverbanks, wear a life jacket at all times. The Siletz River is cold and fast-moving.
  • 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.
  • 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.

Updates will be shared through FlashAlert and our Facebook page as significant updates become available.
 

Once again, we express empathy for Dane’s family. We also want to thank our community for their compassion and assistance. Our teams are working to bring Dane home.
 

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Search For Dane Paulsen - Search Remains Ongoing (Photo) -03/08/25

SEARCH FOR DANE PAULSEN UPDATE – SEARCH REMAINS ONGOING

3/8/25, 12:00pm – Siletz, Oregon

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and partnering agencies are continuing search operations for Dane Paulsen. Investigators continue to follow up on informational tips alongside search efforts. Daily water searches utilizing watercraft with specialized equipment and trained personnel will continue until further notice.
 

Some efforts focusing on the search on the river include:

• A boat running methodical searches over long spans. In addition to searching today, this boat covered an approximate 14 mile stretch of river yesterday (3/7/25).

• A boat running underwater sonar and underwater drones/remotely operated vehicles with underwater cameras.

• Many community members are also searching the river with personal watercraft, expanding the coverage area to include the lower Siletz River.

How Community Members Can Help:

• Share official updates found on the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office FlashAlert and Facebook page.

• Currently there is no evidence to suggest criminal activity in Dane’s disappearance. We still ask the public to report relevant information to the tip line: 541-265-0669. To ensure investigators receive information as quickly as possible, please submit all tips to the tip line, not through Facebook. When sharing information that may help us bring Dane home, be as specific as possible. Note the time, exact location, and get clear photos or videos when possible. 

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

  • If you are choosing to search the river or riverbanks, wear a life jacket at all times. The Siletz River is cold and fast-moving.

  • 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.

  • 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.

Updates will be shared through FlashAlert and our Facebook page as significant updates become available.

Once again, we express empathy for Dane’s family. We also want to thank our community for their compassion and assistance. Our teams are working to bring Dane home.
 

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Search For Dane Paulsen - Summary Of Search And Continued Efforts (Photo) -03/05/25

SEARCH FOR DANE PAULSEN – SUMMARY OF SEARCH AND CONTIUED EFFORTS

3/4/25, 2:45pm – Siletz Oregon

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and partnering agencies are continuing search operations for Dane Paulsen. Investigators continue to follow up on informational tips. Below is a comprehensive update on the full operation, what has been accomplished, and plans for continuing efforts to bring Dane home.

Dane’s Disappearance

On Saturday, March 1, 2025, at approximately 4:25 PM the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office was notified of a missing 2-year-old male, Dane Paulsen. At the time of his disappearance, Dane was reported to be playing in the yard of the residence located near milepost 21 on Siletz River Highway in Siletz, Oregon. Dane was wearing a grey fuzzy hoody with ears, blue and white shoes, and black pants. He has brown hair and green eyes.

A gold, 1990's station wagon was seen in the area before Dane went missing and was initially listed as a vehicle of interest. Between law enforcement and community tips, the vehicle and driver were located on March 2nd. After officials thoroughly interviewed and investigated both the driver and car, they were found to be unrelated to Dane’s disappearance and are no longer a point of interest in this operation.

Initial Search Efforts

Upon notification of Dane’s disappearance, 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 Toketee Illahee Campground Host took the lead to organize community volunteers to help lead additional efforts from Saturday, March 1^st through Tuesday, March 4^th.

Although official search operations continued during the evenings and dark hours, community volunteers were encouraged to pause their search due to safety concerns related to visibility and navigation made worse in the rough terrain.

Overall Search Efforts:
Since the initial notification, search efforts have continued. Here is a snapshot of what has been covered so far.

• Between emergency responders and community members, 682 acres and 341 cumulative walking miles have been covered by ground searchers.
• Marine enforcement teams from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and partnering sheriff’s offices have searched 14 miles of the Siletz River by boat. At least 4 watercrafts have been utilized and 22 divers have searched a 2 mile stretch of the river.
• 40 Investigators have followed up on at least 195 tips and leads. Many of these tips led to action including further follow up, interviews, evidence collection, reviewing photos and video footage, and other investigative actions. At least 119 tips from the tip line have been received and reviewed.
• More than 200 community volunteers reported to the volunteer staging area coordinated by the Elks Campground Host to assist with the search.
• Specialized equipment, highly trained personnel, and subject matter experts have been active.
  • Approximately 88 certified Search and Rescue Members.
  • 2 Mounted Posse volunteers.
  • 4 drones with certified operators. Some of these drones included thermal imaging.
  • A Sign Cutter, which is a highly trained individual that uses tracking techniques to find and follow signs left behind by people or animals.
  • 6 human trailing canines (K9s). This includes specialized K9s for water searches, human scent K9s (which can focus on one scent and track accordingly), and human remains detection K9s.
• Supporting emergency responders from:
  • Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office
    • Patrol
    • Investigations
    • Marine
    • Administration
    • Community Services
    • Emergency Management
    • Search and Rescue
    • Mounted Posse
  • FBI
  • Lincoln City Police Department
  • Newport Police Department
  • Oregon State Police
  • Siletz Valley Fire
  • Corvallis Mountain Rescue Unit
  • Mary’s Peak Search and Rescue
  • Region 3 K9
  • Benton County Sheriff’s Office
  • Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office
  • Crook County Sheriff’s Office
  • Coos County Sheriff’s Office
  • Lane County Sheriff’s Office
  • Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office
  • Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office

Ongoing Efforts
The terrain in the overall search area includes surrounding properties, forested, rough terrain, and the Siletz River and riverbanks. Due to a thorough search and coverage of these areas, search operations will now be focusing on a more concentrated area, highlighting the Siletz River. Emergency responders have had watercraft searching the river since the morning of Sunday, March 2^nd and divers began searching the river on Monday, March 3^rd. With the surrounding land being as thoroughly searched as possible, evidence has indicated the need to concentrate further search efforts on the Siletz River.

Though the land within the search area has been thoroughly combed, we cannot guarantee the areas are clear. Even with specialized equipment and search K9s, it is possible to miss a small child that may be hidden by thick brush or other visual impairments.

Although there is currently no evidence to suggest criminal activity in Dane’s disappearance, investigators continue to review tips reported to the tip line.

Community members and the media can expect updates as significant information becomes available.

How Community Members Can Help:

• Share official updates found on the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office FlashAlert and Facebook page.
• Currently there is no evidence to suggest criminal activity in Dane’s disappearance. We still ask the public to report relevant information to the tip line: 541-265-0669. When sharing information that may help us bring Dane home, be as specific as possible. Note the time, exact location, and get clear photos or videos when possible.  
• Although the Elks Toketee Illahee Campground Host is no longer able to organize community volunteers, volunteers may choose to gather at the campground to continue their own efforts: 20590 Siletz Hwy, Siletz, Oregon 97380
• 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.

Updates will continue to be shared through FlashAlert and our Facebook page as significant updates become available.

Once again, we express empathy for Dane’s family. We also want to thank our community for their compassion and assistance. Our teams are working to bring Dane home.

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Talking Points From Community And Media Update (Photo) -03/04/25

Attached are the talking points from 

TALKING POINTS FROM COMMUNITY AND MEDIA UPDATE

3/4/25, 6:00PM – Siletz Oregon
 

PIO Palma: Good evening and thank you for being here for our community update on the search for Dane Paulsen. I am Jess Palma, the Public Information Officer for the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office. Today I am joined by Sheriff Adam Shanks and Sergeant Jason Spano.
 

Before we begin, please take this time to silence any cell phones, radios, or other devices that may create a disturbance. After our speakers share their statements, there will be time for some questions from members of the media. 
 

In just a moment, I will hand this over to Sheriff Shanks, but first I will provide some updates on our ongoing search for Dane Paulsen.

Before I begin, I need to recognize how difficult this has been on Dane’s family, especially his parents Chamet and Aaron. The pain and tragedy they are facing is unimaginable. Our teams and supporting agencies have been working to find Dane and our hearts are heavy.

I would also like to recognize and thank our community for your continued support and concern as we work diligently to locate Dane. We understand the deep impact this situation has on his family and our community. We are committed to finding answers.
  
Despite intense search and rescue efforts in the surrounding area and waterways as well as investigations following up on community tips, Dane has not yet been located. Our teams, Search and Rescue, Mounted Posse, and partnering agencies, as well as community volunteers have thoroughly searched the local area. The search has utilized every tool we’ve been able to employ including, but not limited to additional personnel and volunteers, drones, K9s, thermal imaging, night-vision, watercraft, divers, and more. These tools have enabled us to cover more ground in a shorter timeframe and have enabled us to better-access hard-to-reach terrain.
  
Lincoln County communities have shown their support by helping search, sharing official updates, reporting tips, and offering food or other accommodations to responders. Over the last 72 hours, searchers have covered over 682 acres and 341 walking miles have been covered. Over 2 river miles have been thoroughly searched by divers. At least 195 leads and tips have been investigated.

This investigation is still very active and remains a priority for our team and communities. We want to bring Dane home.
 

Our community continues to ask for ways they can support Dane’s family. Right now, the family just wants their son back. If you have information related to Dane’s disappearance, we ask that you report it to the tip line at 541-265-0669. When sharing information that may help us bring Dane home, be as specific as possible. Note the time, exact location, and get clear photos or videos when possible.  

Although community volunteers are no longer being organized by the Elks Toketee Illahee campground host, community members may choose to continue to search for Dane on their own. We respectfully remind community volunteers choosing to continue search efforts to keep safety in mind, avoid searching at night, and avoid private property without updated permission from the landowner.

As more information becomes available, we will continue to share updates on our FlashAlert and Facebook page.

Now, I will invite Sheriff Shanks to share his statement.   
 

Sheriff Shanks:

Good evening, I am Sheriff Adam Shanks.
 

Dane’s disappearance is absolutely heartbreaking. His family is experiencing unimaginable pain. As a parent myself, my heart is broken just seeing what they are going through.  Our teams and supporting agencies have held this search close to our hearts. On behalf of all responding agencies and community volunteers, I want to express sincere empathy and compassion.
 

I would also like to recognize and thank our community for your continued support and concern as we work to locate Dane. We understand the deep impact this situation has on his family and our community. We are committed to finding answers.
 

I want to thank our communities for doing what they do best during this search, which is coming together to support each other. Over 200 community members throughout our county, across the state, and even surrounding states, have responded to help by reporting to the volunteer staging area. This effectively helped us cover the local area faster than would have otherwise been possible. Our communities also have helped by sharing official updates from our page which helped keep others informed and on the lookout. You’ve also not hesitated to call in tips that might help us bring Dane home.

We know this is a difficult time for Dane’s family and we are doing everything we can to bring him home. From the bottom of my heart, and on behalf of Dane’s family, thank you for all of you’ve done. However, we are not finished. Later you will hear how you can continue to assist us in our effort to bring Dane home.
 

I will now invite Sergeant Jason Spano to provide an update on anticipated next steps with the search for Dane.
 

Sergeant Spano:
 

Good evening, I am Sergeant Jason Spano. I know our entire community has been affected by Dane’s disappearance, and our hearts are with his family while we work to bring him home.
 

In addition to community members, highly trained personnel, search k9s, and specialized equipment have thoroughly covered the local area. This includes ground, water, and air searches. 
 

Based on the information from search efforts and following up on tips, we will now be concentrating on a very focused area. So far the evidence available indicates Dane was at the river’s edge before his disappearance. Because of this, we will be focusing the majority of our ongoing resources on searching the Siletz river. We are using drones, divers, watercraft, K9s, and even a sign cutter to thoroughly cover the area. A sign cutter is a highly trained individual on tracking technique that involves finding and following signs left behind by people or animals.
 

The terrain in our overall search area includes surrounding property, forested, rough terrain, the Siletz river and river banks. Due to a thorough search and comprehension of these areas, search operations will now be focusing on a more concentrated area, highlighting the Siletz river. 

Although the land within the search area has been thoroughly combed, we cannot 100% guarantee the areas are clear. With thick, rough, forest terrain, it is possible to miss locating a person, especially a small child, hidden by thick brush or other visual impairments even with specialized equipment and search k9s.. Official watercraft and divers are concentrating on thoroughly searching the river. We hope to bring Dane home soon.    
 

As the Sheriff and Jess have both said, this search is ongoing and we are working to bring Dane back to his family.  
 

For more information and updates continue to follow our FlashAlert page at flashalert.net/id/LCSO

Updated Data

• 682 acres and 341walking miles
• Divers have searched more than 2 river miles
• 88 Certified Search and Rescue Members
• 4 Watercraft
• 13 Divers
• 4 Drones
• 6 Human Trailing K9s
• 40 Investigators
• More than 200 Community Volunteers

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Sheriff To Provide Community Update On Search For Dane Paulsen (Photo) -03/04/25

SHERIFF TO PROVIDE COMMUNITY UPDATE ON SEARCH FOR DANE PAULSEN
3/4/25 - Siletz, Or

Sheriff Shanks and the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office will be providing an in-person update for our community on the search for Dane Paulsen. The Sheriff’s Office will share information about the investigation and search efforts along with anticipated next steps. After officials have shared their statements, there will be time for questions from the media.

When: Tuesday, March 4, 2025 at 4:30pm.

Where: Elks #1664 Toketee Illahee Campgrounds: 20590 Siletz Hwy, Siletz, OR 97380

RSVP:

• Community members are not required to RSVP.  
• To help with planning, members of the media are asked to RSVP by emailing lcsheriff@co.lincoln.or.us. Media partners interested in attending will need to sign in at the location.

Questions: Public Information Officer, Jess Palma, at lcsheriff@co.lincoln.or.us
 

Additional updates will be shared via FlashAlert and social media as they become available.
 

Once again, we thank our community for their compassion and assistance. Our team and the community are working to bring Dane home.
 

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Search For Dane Paulsen - 3/4/25 9:00am Update (Photo) -03/04/25

SEARCH FOR DANE PAULSEN – 9AM UPDATE

3/4/25, 9:00AM – Siletz Oregon

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and partnering agencies are continuing active search operations for Dane Paulsen. Investigators are following up on informational tips. Ground, water, and air searches are ongoing.
 

Community members interested in helping with search efforts can continue to report to the staging area during daylight hours. Community volunteer staging area: Elks Toketee Illahee campground, 20590 Siletz Hwy, Siletz, Oregon 97380.
 

Community members can also help by sharing official updates found on the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office FlashAlert and Facebook page. Please continue to report relevant information to the tip line: 541-265-0669
 

Updates will be shared through FlashAlert and our social media as they become available. The next media release is expected this evening (March 4, 2025), unless major updates become available sooner.
 

Once again, we thank our community for their compassion and assistance. Our team and the community are working to bring Dane home.

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03/03/25 - Search For Dane Paulsen - 4pm Update (Photo) -03/03/25

SEARCH FOR DANE PAULSEN -- 4PM UPDATE

3/3/25, 4:00PM -- Siletz Oregon

The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office and partnering agencies have continued active search operations and followed up on informational tips in the search for Dane Paulsen throughout today. These efforts are ongoing with officials completing additional ground, water, and air searches. The investigation team continues to follow up on leads from community members. Official search efforts are planned through this evening and into tomorrow.
 

Community members are not encouraged to search during the evening hours due to decreased visibility and increased chance of injury. Community members can help by sharing official updates which can be found on our FlashAlert and Facebook page and by reporting relevant information to the tip line: 541-265-0669

So far, 311 miles have been covered and 682 acres have been searched. Of those 682 acres, community volunteers searched 230 acres, for which we are incredibly grateful.

Additionally, the following resources have been deployed during the search for Dane:

• 88 Certified Search and Rescue Members
• 4 Watercraft
• 13 Divers
• 4 Drones
• 6 Human Trailing K9s
• 40 Investigators
• More than 140 Community Volunteers

Updates will continue to be shared through FlashAlert and our social media as they become available. The next media release is expected tomorrow morning March 4, 2025, unless major updates become available sooner.
 

Once again, we thank our community for their compassion and assistance. Our team and the community are working to bring Dane home.

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Search For Dane Paulsen - 3/3/25 9:00am Update (Photo) -03/03/25

SEARCH FOR DANE PAULSEN - UPDATE

3/3/25, 9:00AM -- Siletz Oregon

The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office and partnering agencies continued active search operations in the area and followed up on informational tips for Dane Paulsen throughout the evening of March 2^nd and into the morning of March 3^rd. These efforts are continuing today with officials completing additional ground, water, and air searches. The investigation team continues to follow up on tips from community members. Information related to Dane's disappearance can be reported to the tip line: 541-265-0669

Community members interested in helping with search efforts can continue to report to the staging area during daylight hours. Community staging area: Elks Toketee Illahee campground, 20590 Siletz Hwy, Siletz, Oregon 97380.

Additional updates will be shared via FlashAlert and social media as they become available.

Once again, we thank our community for their compassion and assistance. Our team and the community are working to bring Dane home.

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Search For Dane Paulsen - Update (Photo) -03/02/25

SEARCH FOR DANE PAULSEN - UPDATE
 

3/2/25, 6:00PM -- Siletz Oregon
 

On Saturday March 1, 2025, at about 4:25pm, the Sheriff's Office responded to a report of a missing 2-year-old male (Dane Paulsen) from his residence near Milepost 21 on HWY 229, north of Siletz, Oregon. A vehicle and an adult male, both of which were not known to the family, were noted near a bridge close to the residence approximately 30 minutes prior to the juvenile's disappearance. Through a community tip, this vehicle and operator have since been located. Following further investigation, this subject and the vehicle are no longer a point of interest. We thank our community for sharing information and tips related to this investigation.
 

At the time of Dane's disappearance, he was playing in the front yard of their residence and out of sight of his parents. Dane is friendly and fearless, and is comfortable around strangers and water, but cannot swim. Dane is known to love water and vehicles.
 

At this time, Dane is still missing. Investigators are following up on numerous leads, including investigating various leads provided by our community. We have multiple Search and Rescue Teams and Sheriff's Posse, along with community volunteers, searching the area. Marine Teams and divers are searching the river. The Lincoln County Major Crime Team and the FBI are also assisting with investigative leads.

At this time, Dane's disappearance does not meet the criteria to use the Amber Alert system. Our team will continue to share updates and information via FlashAlert and social media. There is no evidence at this time to suggest criminal actions are involved in this incident.
 

The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, including the enforcement division, Search and Rescue (SAR), and Mounted Posse, is being assisted by Oregon State Police, Lincoln City Police Department (PD), Newport PD, FBI, Siletz Valley Fire, Lane Co SO, Clackamas Co SO, Polk Co SO, Corvallis Mountain Rescue Unit, Mary's Peak SAR, and Region 3 K9.
 

So far, 382 acres have been searched and 283 miles have been covered. The following resources have been deployed in the initial 24 hours of Dane's disappearance:

• 88 Certified Searcher and Rescue Members

• 4 Watercraft

• 4 Divers

• 4 Drones

• 6 Human Trailing K9s

• 40 Investigators

• 138 Community Volunteers

Family resources are being provided by the FBI's Victim Services Division.
 

How Can the Community Help:

Although our teams will continue to work through the evening, community members are not encouraged to continue their search until daylight tomorrow.

• Those that are interested in joining search efforts can go to the staging area and check in with the camp host at Elks Toketee Illahee campground at 20590 Siletz Hwy, Siletz, Oregon 97380.

• Continue to report information that is relevant to Dane's disappearance or may bring him home to the tip line: 541-265-0669

Once again, we thank our community for their compassion and assistance. Our team and the community are working tirelessly to bring Dane home.

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