A missing toddler has been found after an extensive search, authorities announced on social media, marking a heartbreaking outcome to a case that gripped the community.

A tragic end to a nearly two-week search — authorities confirmed on March 11 that 2-year-old Dane Paulsen, missing since March 1, was found in the Siletz River, about three miles downstream from his family’s property.

“Sadly, he was found deceased,” the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office announced in a Facebook press release. The statement added that investigators are processing the scene in coordination with the Lincoln County Medical Examiner’s Office and that no further details are available at this time.

According to the sheriff’s office, volunteer diver Juan Heredia from Angels Recovery Dive Team assisted in the search after connecting with authorities. Guided by a local river expert, he searched areas downstream from locations already covered by sheriff’s office divers and discovered the child at approximately 11:13 a.m.

Following the discovery, authorities expressed deep sorrow over the loss. “Our thoughts are with the family, who are facing an unbearable sorrow,” Sheriff Adam Shanks said.

He also expressed gratitude for the dedication of search teams and community members during the challenging search, while lamenting the tragic outcome. The sheriff’s office confirmed that Paulsen’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,” the statement read.