Grays Harbor detectives now believe missing 5-year-old girl Oakley Carlson was last seen alive on Feb. 10, two weeks after they were last able to prove she had been seen.
Grays Harbor County Undersheriff Brad Johansson said a tip suggested Oakley was in the county on that date, and investigators believe the information to be credible.
"This is a person who is associated with the family and we find them to be reliable," said Johansson.
He said investigators are frustrated they have not received more information from the public.
”At this point, she was last seen in the care of her parents, and unfortunately the reality that she’s going to be recovered safe and sound is becoming smaller and smaller," said Johansson.
Oakley was reported missing by a principal in the Oakville School District who told authorities she was concerned for the child’s wellbeing after speaking with one of her siblings, who said, “Oakley is no more.”
Oakley’s parents, Andrew Carlson and Jordan Bowers, are facing charges of abandonment. They’re accused of withholding medicine from one of Oakley’s siblings.
Their next court hearing is set for Dec. 30.
As for Oakley’s disappearance, the sheriff’s office is hoping more people come forward with tips that could lead them to her location.
Johansson previously stated his office had received a large number of tips but not nearly as many as expected with how much attention the case has gotten.
Investigators still want to speak with anyone who has seen Oakley since January 2021. Additionally, they want to speak with anyone who had direct contact with either of her parents in that same timeframe.
Oakley's grandparents, whom officers say have been helping with the investigation, released the following statement on Wednesday:
"The Carlson family have been and continue to be fully cooperating with this investigation. Our only objective is to find our granddaughter Oakley. We're praying that Oakley will be found soon and also for the multitude of good people working around the clock to make that happen. We ask that the media respect our privacy during this very difficult time, and we do not with to make any further statement for now. Thank you."
Anyone with information should call the dispatch non-emergency number at 360-533-8765, Detective Sgt. Paul Logan at 360-964-1729 or email sodetectives@co.grays-harbor.wa.us.