ANN ARBOR, Mich. – The search volunteer who found a missing 82-year-old Ann Arbor described where he made the discovery and why he thought to check in that spot.
Ralph Yang, 82, of Ann Arbor, was missing for 48 hours before he was found before 9 p.m. Wednesday, June 25, 2025, in the 2500 block of Newport Road.
Ben Osenbaugh said he couldn’t have done it without his dog, Dolly.
“I was just very happy to be a part of the effort. I live in the community,” said Osenbaugh. “When I approached the meetings and saw how many volunteers there were, it was just very heartwarming to see so many people want to step in and help out.”
Yang was last seen around 7:15 p.m. on June 23, 2025, in the area of Pin Oak Drive and White Oak Drive when he went for a walk and didn’t return home.
While walking with the search party along a busy road Wednesday, Osenbaugh said he noticed a steep drop-off.
Concerned that someone might have fallen, he and his dog took a closer look.
“I started to think as if someone could have misstepped and fallen. They could have, you know, been down there,” Osenbaugh said.
Upon further investigation, Dolly and Osenbaugh reported to Local 4 that he spotted a white shirt near the creek.
“There he was, you know, he was not responsive, but he was moving. I could see him moving his mouth and moving his hand a little bit, so I knew he was alive,” Osenbaugh said.
He said he quickly called 911, and emergency responders arrived promptly to assist.
Osenbaugh emphasized the community’s close-knit nature, which is why he joined in the search for Yang.
“I think everyone is very close and wants to, you know, when you see something like that, you want to do your part however you can,” Osenbaugh said.
Osenbaugh said his wife had informed him about the search efforts on social media, leading to a plan where she took care of their children while he and Dolly joined the search.
“I’m thankful that he was found, number one, and I’m hopeful that, you know, he probably has a long road ahead of him in recovery,” Osenbaugh said. “I’m just happy for his family.”
Osenbaugh gave a shout-out to Dolly, his golden lab, who played a major part in the search.
“Here, Dolly, this is your chance,” Osenbaugh said as she got some camera time while acknowledging his loyal companion.
The community’s response has been overwhelming, with nearly 200 volunteers participating in the search efforts.