A mother from Washington state has made an emotional appeal for the safe return of her two young sons after authorities feared they may have been taken by their father, who police say was “seriously depressed.”
Children Missing After Custody Exchange
Lizzie Tomich said her sons, 1-year-old Will Richman and 10-month-old Wesley, were last seen on May 16. The boys had gone with their father, Dane Stephen Richman, during a routine custody exchange from Tomich’s home in Sheldon, Washington. However, officials said he failed to return the children as planned a week later.
Father Claimed They Were Camping
According to Tomich, Richman told her that he and the boys were camping. Concerns increased after he reportedly skipped a custody deposition hearing on Friday. Tomich later contacted police and requested a welfare check at Richman’s home in Saratoga Springs, Utah.
When officers arrived, they reportedly found the house vacant, with belongings already moved out. Tomich said there was no sign of Richman, the children, or the family vehicle.
She also shared text messages where she repeatedly asked about the boys’ location. Richman allegedly replied that the children were “with me” and that he was driving while camping.
Family and Lawyer Raise Serious Concerns
Tomich explained that she arrived early at a planned meeting location, but Richman never appeared. As time passed without any response, she contacted police.
Family lawyer Brittany Skinner later claimed investigators discovered Richman had quit his job, sold most of his possessions, and left home with nearly everything he owned. The lawyer alleged this suggested he intended not to return with the children.
Emotional Appeal From the Mother
Fighting back tears in a social media video, Tomich begged the public to help spread awareness about the missing boys. She described her sons as having “infectious smiles, dimples and blue eyes.”
Tomich urged people to share photos and information because the children “could be anywhere.”
Amber Alert Issued
Authorities later issued an Amber Alert and charged Richman with custodial interference, a third-degree felony. Police believe he may have traveled through Carlsbad, California, before possibly crossing into Mexico.
Officials also expressed concern about Richman’s mental state, citing reports of serious depression, financial stress, selling possessions, and abandoning his home before disappearing with the children.
Vehicle Information Released
Authorities believe Richman may be driving a black Toyota Camry with Utah license plate A561HL. Police also warned that the vehicle could now have a temporary license tag.
Family Sends Public Message
Katie Walters, the children’s aunt, said moving trucks were seen leaving Richman’s home during the police welfare check. She also made a public appeal directly to Richman, asking him to stay safe and bring the children home safely.
