CLACKAMAS COUNTY, Ore. — The Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office has officially suspended the active search for Devon Dobek, a hunter who went missing in the Mount Hood National Forest, officials announced on Friday.
The decision followed seven days of intensive search efforts that involved more than 4,000 volunteer and personnel hours. Teams scoured the rugged landscape surrounding the Fish Creek Trailhead, where Dobek’s truck was discovered on October 31.
Dobek, a 1993 Philomath High School graduate and Hubbard resident, was last heard from the same day. In a message to a friend, he said he planned to head home early after successfully bagging a deer. However, when he failed to return, authorities launched a large-scale search operation spanning from October 31 to November 7.
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The search brought together multiple agencies and specialized teams, including ground crews, helicopters, airplanes, drones with thermal imaging, K-9 units, ATVs, and cellphone tracking experts. Despite these extensive efforts, no sign of Dobek was found.
Officials said the operation faced extreme challenges, including steep and heavily forested terrain, limited cell service, and areas still affected by the 2020 wildfires, which left behind fallen trees and difficult-to-navigate conditions.
While the active search has been suspended, the Sheriff’s Office emphasized that the case remains open. Additional searches could be organized if new leads or evidence come to light.
Authorities extended their appreciation to all volunteers and partner agencies involved, highlighting their dedication and commitment during the weeklong effort to locate Dobek.
