The McKenzie County Sheriff’s Office has issued a public appeal for information about a missing 35‑year‑old man, Daniel Christopher Rausch. Rausch was last observed on Friday, Oct. 9, walking along US Highway 85 South, just south of Watford City.
Details of the disappearance
According to the sheriff’s office, Rausch told acquaintances he was leaving North Dakota and intended to travel to Dickinson by bus before continuing onward to Florida. After that conversation, he was seen walking on the highway corridor, and his whereabouts have been unknown since.
How the community can help
Law enforcement officials are urging anyone who may have seen Rausch, noticed unusual activity along the highway, or has any information about his possible route to contact the McKenzie County Sheriff’s Office immediately. The department can be reached at 444‑3654. Callers are asked to provide as many details as possible, including the time and location of any sightings, vehicle descriptions, or interactions.
Why the search matters
Missing‑person investigations are a top priority for local law‑enforcement agencies because they protect families and uphold community safety. Prompt tips can dramatically increase the chances of locating a missing individual, especially when the person is traveling alone on a major highway.
About the McKenzie County Sheriff’s Office
The McKenzie County Sheriff’s Office serves a largely rural area in north‑central North Dakota, providing law‑enforcement, emergency response, and public‑safety services across a wide geographic region. The office routinely works with state and federal partners when cases cross jurisdictional lines, ensuring that resources are mobilized quickly.
Next steps
Investigators will continue to canvass the area surrounding US‑85 South, review any surveillance footage, and follow up on leads provided by the public. Residents are reminded that even seemingly minor observations—such as a vehicle parked unusually long or a lone individual walking at odd hours—can be crucial.
The sheriff’s office also advises anyone who may be concerned about their own safety while traveling on rural highways to stay alert, travel in groups when possible, and keep cell phones charged and within reach.
Community members who wish to support the search effort can also consider checking local bulletin boards, social‑media groups, and neighborhood networks for any updates. The McKenzie County Sheriff’s Office will provide further information as the investigation progresses.
Original reporting: KFYR-TV Bismarck (news) — read the source article.
