Desperate Search For Oregon Toddler Who Vanished While Playing Outside Now Spans Over 300 Miles

Oregon authorities have searched a massive area trying to find a missing toddler who disappeared while playing.

Dane Paulsen was reported missing around 4:25 p.m. on March 1. The 2-and-a-half-year-old was last seen in the front yard of his home located along Highway 229 near milepost 21, Lincoln County Sheriff's police said.

By the end of the day on Monday, authorities had searched 682 acres and 311 miles, but Paulsen has still not been found, authorities said.

"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," police stated.

"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," police stated.

Previously, police stated that Paulsen had been out of sight of his parents when he had vanished. Police have said that Paulsen is described as friendly and that he is comfortable around strangers and water. At the time of his disappearance, Paulsen was wearing a grey fuzzy hoody with ears, blue and white shoes, and black pants. Dane has brown hair and green eyes.

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