Forest Grove, OR — Authorities are searching for 78-year-old Thomas Weightman, who disappeared after leaving his family’s home Tuesday morning and later called 911 to report that he had fallen into a hole. Despite extensive search efforts, officials say they’ve been unable to locate him in the area’s rugged terrain.
According to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Weightman was reported missing at around 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, after he left his Forest Grove home on foot at about 10 a.m. and never returned. During a short phone call, he told dispatchers he had fallen and wasn’t sure where he was.
Search Efforts in Remote, Rough Terrain
Authorities used cell phone triangulation to trace his location but have struggled due to the rural landscape and limited cell tower coverage. Detective Shannon Wilde said the environment has made finding Weightman extremely challenging.
“Of course, we’ve used cell phone records…but because this is such a rural area and there’s fewer cell towers, that information has not helped us come up with a really narrow search area,” Wilde told Fox 12 Oregon.
Wilde described the search zone as a mix of ravines, trees, and open farm fields, calling it “a really challenging geographic area.”
More than 10 agencies have joined the operation, deploying drones, K-9 units, and ground teams across Forest Grove and surrounding farmland, according to The Independent.
“Anytime someone goes missing and we’re doing this large search effort, it’s very overwhelming,” Wilde said. “The longer this goes on, the more concerning it gets for the family and for us.”
Community Asked to Stay Alert
Search crews have asked local property owners to check their land, barns, and outbuildings, while cautioning others not to trespass or interfere with ongoing operations.
The Forest Grove Police Department emphasized that official Search and Rescue teams are leading coordinated efforts.
“We know there is a desire for the community to help with searching on foot,” police said in a statement. “Right now, Search and Rescue is asking property owners to search their properties, but are asking that community members avoid the area where they are working.”
Neighbors say they’re staying vigilant and scanning the area during daily routines.
“A lot of the neighbors are out and about,” resident Mark Solar told Fox 12. “I’m sure they’re keeping their eyes open when they are out, whether it’s a little bit of farmwork they’re doing or whatever.”
Weather Concerns and Description of Missing Man
Officials are also worried about cold nighttime temperatures, with lows near 39 degrees, as Weightman was reportedly wearing only a flannel shirt when he disappeared.
Weightman is described as:
- 5 feet 9 inches tall
- 165 pounds
- Gray hair, gray beard, and glasses
- Last seen wearing a red flannel button-up shirt, blue jeans, black shoes, and a dark-colored baseball cap
Appeal for Public Assistance
Authorities are urging anyone who may have seen Thomas Weightman after 3:30 p.m. Tuesday to call the Washington County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency line at 503-629-0111. If found, people should immediately call 911.
The search remains ongoing as crews continue to comb through the dense terrain with drones and rescue teams.
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