In the first three months of 2025, there has been a concerning increase in child deaths in Oregon, with ten children who were previously known to the Department of Human Services passing away. Half of these children were under active child abuse investigations, while the other half had families that had been previously checked on by the child welfare agency. These deaths trigger state investigations to look for systemic problems that could have been prevented. The Deputy Child Welfare Director, Molly Miller, stated that while these deaths tend to happen sporadically throughout the year, it is uncertain if the high volume early on in 2025 indicates a troubling increase overall. The State is collaborating with health agencies to improve safety practices and planning to prevent future tragedies.
Of the ten children who died in 2025, eight of the deaths are pending criminal investigations, including that of Thomas Strong, a 17-year-old whose death resulted in his mother and her boyfriend facing charges. Strong was a student at Lakeview High School and was known for his kindness and positivity. The school held a memorial for him and plans to establish a scholarship in his honor. The community mourns the loss of this bright spirit and his absence is deeply felt by all who knew him.
The Department of Human Services is still conducting thorough investigations into these deaths in an effort to improve and prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future. The State remains committed to the safety and well-being of all children under their care.
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