Community Rallying Efforts in Search for Missing Lebanon Man Donald Simmons Jr.
Friends and family of Donald Leroy Simmons Jr. gathered for a search after he went missing nine months ago. Organizers from the MMIW Search and Hope Alliance, led by Kimberly Smart, coordinated efforts to locate him. Simmons, a member of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, was last seen after winning a lottery prize. His van was found containing personal effects but no definitive evidence of his whereabouts. Family and volunteers continue to seek answers in his case.
On February 16, a dedicated group of friends, family, and community members gathered in Lebanon to search for Donald Leroy Simmons Jr., who has been missing for nine months. The search was organized by Kimberly Smart from the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) Search and Hope Alliance, which she initiated after learning of Simmons’ disappearance. Although the organization primarily focuses on indigenous communities, it provides support to all individuals in need of assistance.
Donald Simmons, a member of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, was reported last in a motel in Lebanon on June 18, 2024, and communicated with his sister on June 20, stating he was getting a haircut. There are concerns regarding his well-being, especially since he reportedly won a substantial lottery prize shortly before vanishing, and it is speculated he may have left with an unidentified woman.
Further complicating the investigation, his van was discovered off Berlin Road. Upon investigation by Daphne’s boyfriend, Nick Cotter, he encountered two men nearby who claimed ignorance concerning the vehicle. However, when police interacted with these individuals, they disclosed that Simmons had allegedly sold the van to them. Various personal items, including Simmons’ identification and belongings, were recovered from the van, but no conclusive evidence leading to his whereabouts was found despite thorough police searches.
Smart addressed the search team, noting that this is not the first occasion Simmons has been unaccounted for, but the prolonged absence alongside the lack of communication with family has raised concerns. Both Daphne and Cotter have been conducting separate inquiries regarding his disappearance, yet they remain perplexed. Cotter speculates that Simmons may have encountered poison oak and subsequently sought relief in the river, potentially resulting in an unfortunate drowning; however, he commented that inconsistencies persist in this theory.
When asked about potential foul play, Cotter expressed reluctance but acknowledged that many signs could suggest such a possibility. One volunteer, Jennifer Nelson, echoed the sentiment that the absence of knowledge surrounding Simmons’ fate is troubling, stating that it causes her distress. The search began with Smart briefing the volunteers on the areas to cover and the method of marking locations that had been checked. The team utilized search grids along the Santiam River, meticulously scrutinizing fields and surrounding vegetation where the van had been located.
Smart emphasized the challenges of these searches likening them to searching for “the needle in a haystack.” This search was oriented towards finding remains but recognized the reality that some individuals may simply choose to disappear. Smart conveyed empathy towards Simmons’ loved ones, noting, “Maybe Donald just left.” Post-search, she disclosed to Lebanon Local that substantial findings had emerged, although they necessitate forensic evaluation, which may extend the investigation timeline. As this inquiry progresses, Smart’s aim is to provide Simmons’ family with closure through proper burial rites.
The MMIW organization, established by Smart in the previous year, arose from a commitment to assist families in distress, spurred by the outreach from Simmons’ family. She poignantly stated, “His life mattered.” Descriptions of Simmons indicate he was last seen wearing blue jeans, a dark T-shirt with graphics, a baseball cap, and work boots. He is approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighs around 200 pounds. Authorities have requested that anyone with information related to his case contact Det. Timothy Trahan at (541) 258-4318 or Det. Sergeant Jeremy Weber at (541) 258-4342.
The search for Donald Leroy Simmons Jr. underscores the community’s commitment to uncovering the truth behind his mysterious disappearance. The collaborative efforts initiated by the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women Search and Hope Alliance illustrate a compassionate response to a pressing social concern, emphasizing the importance of solidarity in difficult times. Through ongoing investigation and community support, it is hoped that justice will be served and that Simmons will receive the resolution and respect he deserves.
Original Source: www.lebanonlocalnews.com
