Ashland, Oregon – The body of a Eugene man reported missing in December has been found outside Ashland, according to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies said the remains of Damon Lee Petrie, 60, of Eugene, were located in a rural area near Mill Creek Drive and Highway 66, east of Ashland. The discovery was made by a hiker on Saturday, Feb. 7, following extensive search efforts by law enforcement and search and rescue teams.
Petrie had been reported missing on Dec. 18, 2025, prompting a multi-agency search involving Jackson County Sheriff’s Office deputies, detectives, and Search and Rescue personnel. Authorities said search efforts continued over several weeks as investigators worked to locate Petrie.
According to the sheriff’s office, Medical Examiner detectives have scientifically confirmed the identity of the remains. Officials did not release additional details about the condition of the body or the circumstances surrounding the discovery.
The cause and manner of death have not yet been determined and are pending the results of an autopsy and toxicology testing, authorities said. No timeline was provided for when those results are expected.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office extended condolences to Petrie’s family and friends and thanked the public and search teams for their assistance during the investigation.
Officials said no further information is available at this time, and the case remains under investigation.
For residents and outdoor recreation users in the Ashland area, authorities reminded the public to report any suspicious findings or concerns to local law enforcement.
