She Vanished Near the Beach Last Week — and Police Believe Foul Play Is Involved

Police in Santa Cruz County are investigating the disappearance of 35-year-old Danielle Staley, who has been missing since last week and is now believed to be the victim of foul play

According to the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office, Staley was last seen around 11:23 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 6, near Rio Del Mar State Beach. She is described as being 5 feet 6 inches tall, weighing approximately 120 pounds, with blonde hair. At the time of her disappearance, she was reportedly wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt and leopard-print leggings.

In an update posted on Sunday, Nov. 9, the sheriff’s office said investigators now believe foul play may be involved and that Staley is considered “at risk.”

Authorities are asking anyone who may have surveillance footage from nearby areas between Wednesday, Nov. 5, and Friday, Nov. 7, to come forward. Those with information are urged to contact the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office at 831-471-1121.

“Detectives have been diligently working to track down any information and continue to do so,” the department said in a statement.