The family of Danielle Staley, a 35-year-old woman from Holladay, Utah, is pushing forward with an emotional and exhausting search effort as she remains missing more than two weeks after disappearing from a beach in Central California. Staley was last seen on Nov. 6 at Rio Del Mar State Beach in the Aptos area, where she had attended a bonfire with friends.
Family Searching “Day and Night” for Clues
According to the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office, Staley was visiting the area with a friend and had arrived roughly a week before she vanished. Investigators say she became separated from her group sometime during the night. Her belongings were found on the beach the next morning, intensifying concerns about her safety.
Her sister, Gabrielle Staley, immediately traveled from Utah with their stepfather to work directly with authorities and civilians. She described the efforts as exhaustive and emotionally draining.
“We’ve been doing everything we can think of—organizing searches, distributing flyers, talking with business owners, and reaching out to homeless encampments,” Gabrielle said. “People in the community have been incredible and have even sent camera footage that could help the investigation.”
Authorities Say Foul Play “May Be Involved”
The sheriff’s office stated in a Nov. 9 update that Staley “may be at risk,” and investigators believe foul play could be involved. The department continues to review tips and is urging anyone who was in the Rio Del Mar area the night of Nov. 6 or the morning of Nov. 7 to come forward—especially joggers, cyclists, and residents who frequent the beachfront trail.
Sheriff’s spokesperson Zach West said the agency is following every viable lead. More information about the department’s updates can be accessed through the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office.
Community and Fundraising Efforts Grow
Staley’s family spent a week combing the coastline before returning to Utah briefly. A relative has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the mounting costs of lodging, travel, printing materials, and time away from work. Supporters continue to amplify the family’s plea across social media.
“Despite everything, we’re not giving up,” Gabrielle said. “The outreach has been heartwarming, and it gives us hope that someone might spot her.”
Family members plan to return to California immediately to continue the search. Staley is described as 5-foot-6, with blond hair, last seen in a dark hooded sweatshirt and leopard-print leggings.
For background on missing persons protocols and prevention, families can also refer to resources from the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs).
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office at 831-471-1121.
