Authorities have suspended the search for Susan Lane-Fournier, a 61-year-old woman who disappeared during a hiking trip with her two dogs, Samson and Bella, near Mount Hood, Oregon. The decision to halt the search came late Tuesday night after four days of intensive efforts, which included the deployment of volunteer search teams, drone operations, and K9 units.
Lane-Fournier was reported missing by her employer on November 22, 2024, after she failed to show up for work. Family and friends became concerned when she did not contact anyone, leading to the search efforts being initiated. Her pickup truck, a white 1992 Ford F-250, was discovered parked along East Salmon River Road, close to the Green Canyon Way Trail—an area known for its scenic hiking routes.
According to the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, dozens of volunteers dedicated their time and effort to locating Lane-Fournier. "From Saturday through Tuesday, we had dozens of search volunteers working alongside drone teams and trained K9 units, together contributing over 800 hours to the search,” the Sheriff's Office detailed.
Despite the considerable search operations, conditions proved challenging. The area faced adverse weather conditions, and the sheriff's office stated, "Based on weather conditions and the likelihood of survivability, the decision was made to suspend operations after all four volunteer search teams returned from the field." Weather during the search compounded difficulties, leading to the conclusion of operations as authorities assessed the situation.
While the physical search has been called off, investigators are still pursuing leads about Lane-Fournier’s whereabouts. They hope to speak with anyone who may have seen her or has information pertaining to her activities before she was reported missing. Lane-Fournier is said to have been hiking with her two large Malinois-mix dogs, who are described as her protectors.
Friends and family members expressed their concern and frustration over the situation. Cari Gesch, a friend of Lane-Fournier, recounted her nature as an experienced hiker, emphasizing, "Everyone here knows she's one of the most loving people. It’s just not like her to go off and not tell anyone where she’s going.” Gesch also described the dogs, stating, "Those dogs were there to protect her. If anyone approached, they'd be the first to react!" The dogs play significant roles not just as companions but as part of Lane-Fournier’s adventurous spirit.
Shortly before the search was suspended, Dakota Lane, Lane-Fournier's son, echoed the sentiments of hope shared by many. He told reporters, "We're remaining calm, stoic, and trying to hope for the best as we keep our minds open to all possibilities.” Lane's family maintains their hopes alive even as rescue operations have concluded.
Friends and community members have rallied behind the family during this difficult time, emphasizing the urgency and importance of locating Lane-Fournier. The sheriff’s office is currently urging anyone who has had contact with her or spotted her truck near the trail to come forward with information. The investigation remains open and active, as officials continue to gather information and reconstruct the timeline leading up to her disappearance.
If you have any information related to the search for Susan Lane-Fournier, or if you saw her or her dogs leading up to her disappearance, you are encouraged to contact the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office’s non-emergency dispatch line at 503-655-8211.
While hope remains, the uncertainty weighs heavily on her family and friends as they navigate this heart-wrenching experience. Such incidents serve as sobering reminders of the risks inherent to outdoor adventures and the importance of taking safety precautions.
Communities often come together during crises, and the support surrounding Lane-Fournier's case has been no exception, highlighting the human connection and concern for one another during troubling times. Keeping faith during uncertainty, the family looks forward to any news or breakthroughs about Susan’s whereabouts. The spirit of resilience runs deep, and everyone remains on standby, ready to act at any moment.
Today, as nature continues to surround the trail and its beauty persists, the hope does not dwindle. Memories of Susan Lane-Fournier live on, and the quest for answers continues.
