UPDATE - 7/21/2025 @ 9:00 p.m.:
Stayton Police Department worked to piece together a timeline from the last known contact with Janice once she was reported missing including talking to neighbors, watching hours of surveillance video in the area, talking with local businesses, and canvassing the area on foot. We continued to receive tips throughout the weekend that we followed up on. Knowing her love of the outdoors, we focused a more intense search on a wooded area near her home.
Marion County Search and Rescue was called in and an MCSO drone assisted in locating what appeared to be a person down in thick brush matching Janice’s description. The location was well off the established path and the terrain made it difficult for first responders to reach the location and initially make any confirmation of circumstances. Positive identification of Janice has since been made and next of kin have been notified.
We do not believe there is any risk or danger to the public.
Stayton PD is working closely with the Marion County Deputy Medical Examiner and the Marion County District Attorney’s Office to determine cause of death. We greatly appreciate the assistance of Marion County Search and Rescue personnel and the MCSO drone operator as well as citizens who called in tips. Our hearts go out to Janice’s family and friends as they process through the loss.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Missing person: JANICE CHRISTINE DAVIS DOB 09/16/1966, 5’7” 128 LBS, Brown Hair and Brown Eyes.
She was last known to be wearing jeans and a black shirt.
On July 18th, 2025 at 12:25 P.M., Janice was reported as a missing and endangered person out of Stayton. Janice is known to frequent parks and wilderness areas in the Stayton area. The Stayton Police Department is requesting your assistance in locating Janice Christine Davis. Janice does not have a vehicle or cell phone. Her wallet and medication were left in her residence.
Janice was last seen on foot on July 16th near Westown Ave and Shaff Rd. She appeared disoriented and confused.
If you have any information on her whereabouts or have seen her since July 16th, please contact the Stayton Police Department, (503) 982-2340.
Stayton Police Department Case # SYP25004669