Missing person, January 24, 2026

EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION Incident Date: January 24, 2026 Time of Incident: 8:30 AM Location: Orono near the campus Affected Campus: University of Maine - Orono Incident Description: On Saturday, January 24, 2026, the University of Maine Police Department (UMPD) is issuing this Emergency Notification in accordance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act. UMPD is assisting the Orono Police Department in an active search for a missing person last seen in the Orono area near the University of Maine campus. Missing Person: Chance Lauer Last Seen: Monday, January 19, 2026, in the Orono area Key Information Provided by Law Enforcement: • The individual does not have a vehicle • His wallet was recovered in his room • His cell phone is currently turned off At this time, no information has been received indicating that this individual poses a threat to members of the UMaine community or the public. This Emergency Notification is required under the Jeanne Clery Act and is being issued to raise awareness and assist law enforcement in locating the missing person. Community members may notice an increased law enforcement presence on and around campus during search efforts. As part of the ongoing search, walking trails on and near campus will be temporarily closed. Community members are asked to stay clear of active search areas and to follow all posted signage and instructions from law enforcement. UMPD reminds our Black Bear community of the following safety guidance: • Continue normal activities while remaining aware of your surroundings • Avoid closed trails and stay clear of designated search areas • If you believe you have information about this person's whereabouts, do not approach • If you are afraid for your safety or the safety of others, call 911 immediately • Do not hesitate to contact UMPD to report any information related to this search Contact Us: You may contact UMPD at any of the following means 24 hours a day: • Non-Emergency Phone: 207.581.4040 • Email: um.policedepartment@maine.edu • Black Bear Safe App: Download it from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. You can file a report, activate a panic button (mobile blue light), use the Social Escape feature, or text with a dispatcher plus more. Additional Resources: University of Maine Counseling Center provides individual counseling services for students. You may contact the Counseling Center at https://umaine.edu/counseling/ or by calling 207.581.1392. UMPD's Black Bear Safe App provides a free service to students and staff as a safe alternative to walking alone at night. You may also view the Maine Warden Service Facebook post here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17QRWrx6s6/