The body of 2-year-old Dane Paulsen, who went missing on March 1, was found on March 11 in Oregon’s Siletz River, about three miles from his family’s property. Despite an extensive search involving volunteers, K9s, drones, and divers, Dane was sadly discovered deceased. His body was located by volunteer diver Juan Heredia, guided by a local river expert.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office expressed their condolences, urging the public and media to respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time. Authorities had searched 382 acres and 283 miles within the first 24 hours. Though a car was seen near the family home at the time of Dane’s disappearance, the driver was not a person of interest. The case did not meet the criteria for an Amber Alert.

Our hearts go out to Dane’s family during this tragic loss.