In Loving Memory of Dale Burke and Drake Hill Two lives lost, two families grieving, one community forever changed
The city of La Grande is reeling after the devastating discovery of two missing individuals—29-year-old Dale Burke and 16-year-old Drake Hill—both found deceased on Friday in a large field in northeast La Grande. What began as two separate missing persons cases has now concluded in heartbreaking tragedy, leaving families, friends, and the entire community struggling to understand the depth of loss experienced in such a short time.
On Friday morning, just after 11:30 a.m., La Grande Police Department personnel were following up on an active case when they came across the remains of Dale Burke, who had been missing since October 27. Dale was discovered deceased from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. The moment his body was located, officers immediately secured the area and requested additional assistance to properly begin an investigation. Dale’s disappearance had weighed heavily on those who knew him—his absence felt deeply, his return hoped for desperately. Instead, those hopes became grief as the reality of his death settled in.
Tragically, the heartbreak did not end there.
Approximately ten minutes later, in a separate section of the same field and roughly 100 yards away, officers discovered the body of 16-year-old Drake Hill, who had been reported missing on November 3. Drake, too, appeared to have died from a self-inflicted wound. The proximity of the two individuals’ locations raised immediate alarm, but early investigative findings indicate that their deaths were isolated incidents and are not believed to be connected.
The discovery of two lives lost in such close proximity has shaken La Grande to its core. Two families are now facing the unimaginable. A young teen with his entire future ahead of him, and a young man navigating adulthood—both gone far too soon. Their deaths echo the silent struggles many face, often alone, and remind the community how urgent and essential it is to support mental health awareness and intervention.
Following protocol for death investigations, the Major Crimes Team was activated, bringing in personnel from the La Grande Police Department, the Union County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, and the Union County District Attorney’s Office. This unified approach ensures a thorough, careful review of all evidence, not because foul play is suspected, but because every life deserves a complete and dignified examination of its final moments.
A police chaplain and Victim’s Advocate were also called to the scene to guide families through next-of-kin notifications, offering compassion, support, and a steady presence in the face of overwhelming tragedy. Investigators continue to gather drone footage, security camera video, and other evidence from the area as the investigation remains ongoing.
The deaths of Dale and Drake have left a lasting impact—one that stretches far beyond the field where they were found. Their loved ones now face grief that words can scarcely capture. Their community now faces questions and sorrow without easy answers. And everyone touched by their stories is reminded of the quiet pain so many carry.
In loving memory of Dale Burke and Drake Hill, may their souls find peace.
May their families be surrounded by strength, comfort, and endless support.
And may the community of La Grande unite in love, healing, and renewed commitment to protecting those who feel unseen, unheard, or alone.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out. Help is available, hope exists, and you are never alone.
