Authorities in Utah and Washington are urgently searching for two very young brothers after police say their father failed to return them during a scheduled custody exchange.
The missing children, identified as almost 2-year-old Will Richman and 10-month-old Wesley Richman, were last seen with their father, 46-year-old Dane Stephen Richman, who is now at the center of an AMBER Alert investigation.
Officials say the case has become increasingly serious because of concerns about the father’s mental health, financial problems, and unusual recent behaviour. Family members are now pleading publicly for help as law enforcement agencies continue searching for the missing boys.
What Happened to Will and Wesley Richman?
According to authorities, the two boys were last seen on May 16, 2026, after Dane Stephen Richman picked them up from their mother’s home in Shelton, Washington.
At the time, Richman and the children’s mother were reportedly involved in an ongoing custody dispute.
Police say Richman was later expected to return the boys to their mother during a custody exchange scheduled for Saturday at his home in Saratoga Springs, Utah.
However, he never arrived for the exchange, raising immediate concerns about the children’s safety.
AMBER Alert Issued Across Utah
After Richman failed to appear, the Utah Department of Public Safety issued an AMBER Alert warning that the children could be in immediate danger.
Authorities stated in the alert that Richman was reportedly suffering from serious depression and facing financial difficulties.
Investigators also said he had allegedly abandoned his home after selling many of his belongings, behaviour police considered alarming under the circumstances.
The AMBER Alert warned that the children may face a risk of serious bodily harm or death.
An emergency electronic AMBER Alert was later sent directly to mobile devices across Utah as police expanded their search efforts.
Family Members Plead for Help
The boys’ aunt, Kate Walters, shared emotional messages on social media asking the public to help locate the children safely.
According to Walters, Richman had recently moved out of his home without informing family members or neighbours.
She also claimed neighbours had not seen him since Wednesday before the missed custody exchange.
Walters publicly begged people to keep the boys in their thoughts and prayers while authorities continue searching for them.
Police Believe Richman May Be Traveling
Investigators believe Dane Stephen Richman may currently be driving a black 2025 Toyota Camry.
Authorities said the vehicle reportedly carries the license plate A561HL, although police warned it may also have a temporary tag attached.
Law enforcement agencies are continuing to monitor highways, neighborhoods, and surrounding states while searching for the missing children and their father.
Officials have not confirmed where Richman may currently be located.
Missed Legal Appointment Raised More Concerns
According to the AMBER Alert, Richman also failed to appear for a custody-related deposition with his attorney on Friday before disappearing.
Investigators reportedly considered the missed legal meeting another warning sign that something was seriously wrong.
Police continue asking the public to immediately report any possible sightings of Richman, the children, or the vehicle connected to the case.
Public Concern Grows During Search
The disappearance of such young children has created growing concern both online and within local communities in Utah and Washington.
Cases involving parental abductions often become especially urgent when investigators believe emotional distress or mental health struggles may place children at risk.
Authorities are urging people not to approach Richman directly if spotted, but instead contact emergency services immediately.
As the search continues, family members remain desperate for answers and hope Will and Wesley Richman are found safe. The case has become another painful reminder of how quickly custody disputes and emotional crises can turn into dangerous missing child investigations.
