Lebanon, Oregon — After nearly two weeks of intensive searching that drew in local residents, law enforcement, aerial search teams, and volunteers from across the state, the search for 88-year-old Don Carroll has come to a heartbreaking end.
Carroll, who had been missing since October 4th, was found deceased, his family confirmed today.
Don Carroll was last seen leaving the Lebanon area in his charcoal grey 2016 Ford Edge, bearing an Oregon “Smokey the Bear” license plate number SB71662. Diagnosed with dementia, Don’s sudden disappearance sparked immediate concern from his family and the broader community. With his condition making him potentially disoriented or confused, every hour that passed increased the urgency and complexity of the search.
A Tireless Community Effort
The first major clue came from a Tile tracking device attached to Carroll’s key fob. On the day of his disappearance, the device pinged at McKercher Park off Highway 228. Unfortunately, that was the last known signal, as the tracker went offline shortly afterward—either due to loss of power or network disconnection. That moment marked the beginning of what would become an exhaustive search effort.
Over the following days, family members, friends, and concerned citizens poured their energy into scouring the region. From the winding roads of Santiam Pass to the vast forests surrounding Sweet Home and Springfield, no trail was left unchecked. Volunteers explored logging routes, rural byways, and secluded lakes. Others reviewed surveillance video, scrutinized vehicle footage, and followed up on unconfirmed sightings.
The effort even went airborne, with a helicopter, two planes, and a licensed drone pilot donating their time and technology to assist in aerial searches. Despite the advanced imaging and flight paths covering wide swaths of terrain, there were no verified signs of Don or his vehicle.
A Family’s Painful Journey
Throughout the search, Don’s family remained steadfast. Daily updates were shared, asking for vigilance from the public and expressing profound gratitude for the community’s support.
In an emotional update posted on October 13th, the family shared that their search was running out of leads. “We are praying for a miracle,” the message read. Sadly, that miracle never came.
Today, with heavy hearts, the family confirmed that Don Carroll had been found deceased. Details regarding the location and circumstances of his discovery have not been released at this time out of respect for the family’s privacy.
“Our family is deeply saddened by this loss but comforted knowing he has been found and is at peace,” the family said in a statement. “We are so grateful for the outpouring of support, prayers, and help from friends, family, and the community during this difficult time.”
Remembering Don Carroll
Known affectionately as “Donnie” by those closest to him, Don Carroll was described as a warm, kind-hearted man with a gentle spirit. Though dementia had impacted his final years, his legacy remains firmly rooted in the lives he touched.
Neighbors remember him as friendly and generous, always ready with a story or a smile. Friends spoke of his quiet wisdom and deep love for his family. In recent years, Don was a regular presence at local parks and events, often accompanied by family members who looked after him as his condition progressed.
A Call for Compassion and Awareness
Don Carroll’s story is not an isolated one. Each year, thousands of families face the same terrifying reality when a loved one with dementia goes missing. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 6 in 10 people with dementia will wander at some point. While many are found quickly, others, tragically, are not.
Local advocates are urging the community to be aware of resources like the Silver Alert system and to encourage families affected by memory-related illnesses to consider wearable GPS technology or other tracking devices—though as Don’s story reminds us, even technology has its limits.
Final Words
As the Lebanon and surrounding communities reflect on Don Carroll’s life and legacy, the overwhelming feeling is one of sorrow mixed with deep appreciation for the humanity displayed over the past two weeks. From strangers joining search parties to pilots offering their time, the outpouring of care was a testament to the power of community.
To Don’s family: the community stands with you in your grief. May you find peace in the days ahead, and may Don Carroll’s memory be a blessing.
Anyone who would like to share condolences or support for the Carroll family is encouraged to do so through local channels or community forums that have supported the search effort.
Rest in peace, Don. You were loved, and you will be missed.