A mother from Washington state is living every parent’s worst nightmare. Elizabeth Tomich says she warned lawyers months ago that her children’s father was behaving in a worrying and unstable way. Now, her two little boys are missing, and police believe their father has taken them. An Amber Alert has been issued, and authorities are asking the public for help in finding the children safely.
Custody Arrangement Before the Disappearance
Elizabeth Tomich, 36, and Dane Richman, 46, were sharing custody of their two sons — 1-year-old Will and 10-month-old Wesley — as their case moved through the Utah court system.
The parents followed a weekly custody schedule. Tomich, who lives in Washington state, would fly to Utah every Saturday to pick up her children from Richman in Saratoga Springs.
She said their usual meeting spots were:
- The parking lot of Thanksgiving Point
- A Maverik gas station near Thanksgiving Point
According to Tomich, Richman had always shown up on time before. But recently, he did not appear at the agreed pickup location, which immediately raised alarm.
Amber Alert Issued in Utah
When Richman failed to return the children, Tomich quickly contacted local authorities. The Saratoga Springs Police Department responded and issued an Amber Alert.
Police said the children were last seen on May 16 when Richman picked them up from Tomich’s home in Shelton, Washington.
Investigators believe Richman may be travelling in a:
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Vehicle | Black 2025 Toyota Camry |
| License Plate | Utah plate A561HL |
| Possible Change | May have temporary tag |
| Extra Detail | Carvana license plate frame |
Authorities have described Richman as possibly dealing with severe depression and financial stress.
Mother Claims She Warned Lawyers
Tomich says she raised concerns about Richman’s behaviour during a custody hearing in April. She told his lawyer that he was unpredictable and capable of living anywhere, even “off the grid.”
She described his past lifestyle as unstable, claiming he had:
- Lived out of his car
- Stayed in a storage unit
- Experienced homelessness
- Lived on a beach
- Spent time in prison
Tomich said she warned that he could take the children anywhere, but she felt her concerns were not taken seriously at the time.
Signs of Sudden Departure
When police visited Richman’s home in Saratoga Springs, it reportedly appeared empty. According to Tomich, neighbours saw furniture being given away for free. A motorcycle and truck were also removed from the property.
She said Richman told neighbours he was losing his house due to a defamation lawsuit and foreclosure, though she claims this may not be true.
Tomich also stated that Richman:
- Quit his job on May 11
- Stopped speaking to family and friends
- Cut off communication months earlier
Even Richman’s family, who are reportedly cooperating with police, do not know his location.
Concerns About Mental Health and Behaviour
Tomich described Richman as obsessive and struggling emotionally. She claimed he blamed her for his depression and often displayed anger.
She also said:
- He drank heavily
- He did not trust others
- He had a temper
- He became fixated on unusual ideas
Police have not confirmed all of these claims, but they continue to search for the missing children.
Description of the Missing Children and Father
Authorities have released the following details:
| Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Will | 2’6”, 31 pounds, blonde hair, blue eyes |
| Wesley | 2’2”, 23 pounds, blonde hair, blue eyes |
| Dane Richman | 6’2”, 195 pounds, brown hair, green eyes, braces |
Tomich added that Richman has a receding hairline and may be wearing a baseball cap. She said he usually wears baggy blue jeans and does not have tattoos or wear jewellery.
Ongoing Search and Public Appeal
This heartbreaking case highlights the emotional strain of custody disputes and the serious risks when communication breaks down. An Amber Alert remains active as law enforcement agencies continue their search efforts.
Tomich says her only focus is bringing her children home safely. She has maintained a close relationship with Richman’s family and is hoping someone will come forward with helpful information.
Authorities are urging anyone who spots the vehicle or has relevant details to contact police immediately. As the search continues, a mother waits anxiously for news, holding onto hope that her little boys will soon return home safely.
