Search Intensifies at Ediz Hook for Missing 22-Year-Old Port Angeles Man
A multi-agency search is actively underway at Ediz Hook for 22-year-old Gunnar Peterson of Port Angeles, who has been missing since the early morning hours of June 28, 2026.
Clallam County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched on June 28 after Peterson was reported overdue by his parents.
His family expressed concern when he failed to return home or make contact, indicating to law enforcement that his disappearance is highly out of character.
Following the initial report, deputies investigated the area where Peterson was last known to have been seen.
Investigators also utilized historical cellular phone location data to identify the last known location of his phone, but despite these efforts, he was not located.
Further investigation yielded surveillance video showing Peterson walking westbound on Front Street in Port Angeles at approximately 1:40 a.m. on June 28.
Investigators believe Peterson was subsequently given a ride to Ediz Hook shortly thereafter. Witnesses reported seeing him in the Ediz Hook area before they left, making this the last confirmed sighting of the 22-year-old.
The case escalated on June 29 when Peterson’s family and friends located several of his personal belongings on the south end of Ediz Hook, which they positively identified as his.
The discovery prompted an immediate and extensive search operation. Agencies participating in the initial search included the Clallam County Sheriff’s Office, Clallam County Search and Rescue, the Port Angeles Police Department, and the United States Coast Guard.
Resources deployed in the search have included patrol boats, helicopters, unmanned aircraft systems, and ground search teams.
Search operations continued the morning of June 30 with additional specialized regional resources.
According to Clallam County Undersheriff Lorraine Shore, there are currently 22 search personnel and a Human Remains Detection K9 Team from Snohomish County actively searching the Ediz Hook area.
The ongoing operation is also being assisted by Clallam County Search and Rescue, Jefferson County Search and Rescue, Olympic Mountain Rescue, and the United States Coast Guard.
While search and rescue operations continue on the ground and water, the Clallam County Sheriff’s Office has transferred the investigative portion of the case to the Port Angeles Police Department, which will continue the missing person investigation.
Authorities are issuing a public plea for assistance.
Anyone who may have seen Gunnar Peterson during the early morning hours of June 28, 2026, or who has information regarding his whereabouts or movements, is strongly urged to contact Clallam County Dispatch at (360) 417-2459, Option 1.
The Sheriff’s Office notes that even information that may seem insignificant could prove valuable to investigators.