A 35-year-old Utah woman, identified as Danielle Staley from Holladay, has now been missing for almost a week after disappearing from Santa Cruz County in central California. Authorities say she was last seen on Thursday night, Nov. 6, near Rio Del Mar State Beach.
Last Known Appearance and Description
According to the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office, Staley is approximately 5 feet 6 inches tall, has blond hair, and was last spotted wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt paired with leopard-print leggings. Investigators are urging anyone who may have seen a woman matching this description to contact them immediately.
Trip to Santa Cruz Before Disappearance
Traveling With a Friend for Over a Month
Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Zach West shared that Staley had been on an extended trip with a friend for more than a month. The two reportedly arrived in the Santa Cruz and Aptos Beach area, specifically Rio Del Mar, about a week prior to her disappearance.
Bonfire Gathering Before She Went Missing
On the night of Nov. 6, around 11:30 p.m., Staley and her friend joined a small group of people at the beach for a bonfire gathering.
At some point during the night, the friend became separated from the group. The following morning, Staley was nowhere to be found, even though her personal belongings remained on the beach, according to West.
Investigators Say Her Silence Is Unusual
Authorities noted that Staley has had no communication with friends or family, which they describe as highly unusual behavior. This lack of contact has heightened concerns for her well-being and prompted a deeper investigation.
Ongoing Search Efforts and Community Tips
Reviewing Surveillance and Identifying Witnesses
Detectives are now working to identify everyone present at the beach that night and are checking business surveillance footage in the surrounding area in hopes of uncovering new leads.
Multiple Possible Sightings Reported
West added that several individuals have contacted the sheriff’s office claiming they may have spotted Staley. Investigators are currently following up on all reported sightings.
Investigation Remains Local
At this time, law enforcement officials say there is no evidence that Staley has left Santa Cruz County, so the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office continues to lead the investigation. Authorities also confirmed that Staley’s friend is cooperating fully with detectives.
The search for missing Utah woman Danielle Staley continues as investigators work through tips, surveillance footage, and witness accounts.
With no confirmed sightings and no communication from her in nearly a week, concern is growing. Authorities are urging the public to stay alert and report any information that could help bring Staley home safely.
