A large search operation is underway for a missing 2-year-old boy, Dane Paulsen, in Oregon. According to the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department, Dane was reported missing on the afternoon of February 28, 2025. He was last seen playing in the front yard of his home in Siletz, Oregon, out of his parents’ sight.
Authorities and community members are working tirelessly to find him. “We thank our community for sharing information and tips related to this investigation,” the sheriff’s department said in a statement.
By the end of Monday, search teams had covered 682 acres and 311 miles, but there was still no sign of Dane. Officials described him as a friendly and fearless child who enjoys being around people and water but does not know how to swim. He also has a love for vehicles.
Dane has brown hair and green eyes. At the time he went missing, he was wearing a gray, fuzzy hoodie with ears, black pants, and blue-and-white shoes.
The search team includes 88 members, 40 investigators, four aerial drones, multiple human-trailing dogs, and 140 community volunteers. Marine teams, including 13 divers, have started searching the Siletz River for any possible leads.
The FBI and the Lincoln County Major Crime Team are also involved in the investigation. The FBI’s Victim Service Division is providing support to Dane’s family.
Earlier, an adult male driving a gold-colored 1990s station wagon was seen in the area about 30 minutes before Dane went missing. However, authorities have since located the driver and the vehicle, and they are no longer considered suspicious.
Despite the seriousness of the situation, Dane’s case does not meet the requirements for an Amber Alert. The Department of Justice has specific criteria for issuing an Amber Alert, including evidence of an abduction, immediate danger to the child’s life, and enough descriptive information to help locate the child. Since there is no evidence of a crime at this time, an Amber Alert has not been issued.
Officials have assured the public that they will continue searching and will provide updates through social media and FlashAlert.
Anyone who wants to help in the search can check in with camp hosts at Elks Toketee Illahee campground. If you have any information about Dane’s disappearance, please call the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department at 541-265-0669.
