10/28/2026
UPDATE 10/28/26, 3:30p: Violet Hay has been found alive and well, a suspect is in custody. Canby Police Chief Jose Gonzalez addressed the press this afternoon to share the update in the investigation. Captain James Murphy provided an update on the efforts that lead to locating Violet. Clackamas County Chief Deputy District Attorney Chris Owen spoke to the coordination of law enforcement and noted that charges for the suspect or suspects are pending the details found in the investigation. Chief Gonzalez noted the Canby Police will hold another press conference tomorrow, and more information is forthcoming.
Tips and information are still welcome.
ALERT!! The Canby Police Department and local and federal partners are investigating a reported kidnapping of a 10-year-old child in southeast Canby. Tips sought, press conference scheduled for 3 p.m.
At approximately 1:47 a.m. on Wednesday, October 28th, 2026, Canby Police responded to a report of a kidnapping at an apartment complex in southeast Canby. Investigators learned that at approximately 1:39 a.m., an unknown male reportedly entered an apartment, assaulted a 12-year-old child, and abducted 10-year-old Violet Hay. Violet is 5’0” and 125 lbs. She was last seen wearing a green shirt and black shorts.
Canby Police activated detective units, performed an area check, identified witnesses and requested the assistance of agency partners. Canby Police investigators are currently working with detectives and forensics experts from the Clackamas County’s Major Crimes Team, Oregon State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
A photograph of Violet is attached. Her whereabouts are currently unknown, and investigators are currently interviewing family members, canvasing the neighborhood, working to collect possible surveillance footage from security cameras, and working to develop a suspect and/or vehicle description as they work to locate Violet Hay. Violet’s mother and father are cooperating with investigators.
PRESS CONFERENCE SCHEDULED: Canby Police Chief Jose Gonzalez will hold a press conference on the investigation and search, which is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. at the Canby Police Department (1175 NW 3rd Avenue, Canby, Oregon). Media should refer queries to PIO Captain James Murphy at [email protected] .
This is a rapidly developing case, and investigators are asking the public for any tips as they search for Violet Hay. Anyone with information is urged to contact 1-800-442-0776, [email protected]. Please reference Canby PD case # 26-021300.