Utah Teen Reunites With Family After 500 Days Missing in Oregon

A 17-year-old girl from Garden City, Utah, was located in Oregon on Sunday afternoon after being missing for more than 500 days. Authorities stated the teenager was found with a 39-year-old man, who was taken into custody without incident. The discovery ended a long search that began when the girl was reported missing in May 2025.

FBI Director Kash Patel announced the recovery in a statement issued by the Salt Lake City Field Office. Local police in Oregon brought the minor to safety after acting on information provided by the federal team. Patel noted that the girl is now safe and can return home.

The FBI and the Rich County Sheriff's Office have been investigating the case together. The sheriff's office in Utah shared the update with the public following the release from the federal agency. ABC News contacted the FBI Salt Lake City office for additional details on the investigation.

In his statement, Patel addressed groups that target children online. He warned those using gore groups to exploit minors that the FBI and its partners are coming for them. The director described the agency's use of every available tool to combat nihilistic violent extremism and protect America's children.

Patel said the teams involved would continue working with partners to hold those responsible accountable. The announcement did not provide further details on the specific nature of the warning or the circumstances surrounding the man's custody.

The Rich County Sheriff's Office confirmed the joint investigation efforts. The case involved a search spanning over a year and a half before the teenager was recovered in Oregon. No further public updates were scheduled at the time of the announcement.