Hailey
In a heart-stopping story of survival, a 13-year-old boy from Missouri was found alive after being missing for four days. Dakota Trenkle, Jr. vanished while skateboarding near his home in the Goose Creek Lake area of southeastern Missouri on July 27, 2025.
The boy’s disappearance sparked an urgent search that ended with an amazing rescue after he was found at the bottom of a steep, 240-foot ravine.
Dakota’s Disappearance and Search Efforts
Dakota was last seen skateboarding near his home on a Sunday afternoon. When he didn’t return, his skateboard was discovered about half a mile away from his house, raising immediate concerns. The discovery of the skateboard prompted the St. Francois County Sheriff’s Department to start an intense search operation with the help of local and state law enforcement.
Authorities also enlisted the help of the Farmington Correctional Center K-9 Unit, whose trained police dogs were key to locating Dakota.
The terrain in the area where Dakota was last seen was steep and heavily vegetated, making the search particularly challenging. Despite the difficult conditions, the community and law enforcement worked tirelessly to locate the missing teen.
The Miraculous Rescue
On July 30, 2025, after days of searching, the police dog from the K-9 Unit led the team to Dakota’s location. The teenager was found in a ravine, approximately 540 yards from his skateboard, and about 240 feet below the ground level. He was discovered lying in one foot of water in a wet weather creek.
His condition was critical, with a major leg injury and exposure to extreme elements for 96 hours.
The teen had spent four days without food, water, or shelter in temperatures that reached over 90°F (high 30s °C), making his survival even more miraculous. His injuries were severe, and he was immediately airlifted to a hospital in St. Louis for medical treatment.
Dakota’s Recovery and Family Support
The local sheriff, Jeffrey S. Crites, shared his relief after the boy’s safe return. “Dakota’s immediate family has been notified, and our hearts are with them during this difficult moment,” said Sheriff Crites.
“We extend our deepest wishes for Dakota’s full and speedy recovery… We are incredibly grateful to every individual who played a role in bringing Dakota home.” The sheriff also confirmed that foul play was not suspected in Dakota’s disappearance, but the case remained open for investigation as of August 1.
Dakota Trenkle, Jr.’s survival against all odds is a testament to the strength of both the teenager and the community that rallied around him. Thanks to the tireless efforts of local law enforcement, the Farmington Correctional Center K-9 Unit, and the community volunteers, Dakota is now receiving the medical care he needs to recover.
His story will surely remain a source of inspiration for many, as it highlights the importance of hope, determination, and the power of teamwork in overcoming challenges.
As of now, Dakota’s family remains by his side, hopeful for a full recovery. The community continues to express their gratitude to those involved in his rescue, and the entire ordeal serves as a reminder of the risks of outdoor activities and the importance of community safety.