On August 20, 1999, two-year-old Dakota Menger was last seen in Nekoosa, Wisconsin, in the company of his mother, Dayna Menger, and her friend, Junelle Marquard. That day, they dropped off Dayna's four-year-old daughter at a babysitter’s home. The group left without specifying where they were going, and they have not been seen or heard from since.
When Dayna failed to return to pick up her daughter, the babysitter initially wasn't alarmed, as Dayna was known to leave her children for days at a time. However, weeks passed without any contact, prompting the babysitter to alert social services.
At the time of their disappearances, Dayna was living in Nekoosa with Dakota, while Junelle resided in Wisconsin Rapids. Both women were reportedly involved with drugs and estranged from their families. It wasn’t until 2004 that Dayna’s brother officially reported her missing, and police became involved in the investigation. Junelle has never been formally reported missing, although her disappearance is tied to the investigation of Dayna and Dakota.
Investigators have considered the possibility of foul play, but no concrete leads have surfaced. Both Dayna and Junelle had minor criminal histories, though it’s unlikely they were running from the law. Despite extensive efforts, Dakota, his mother, and Junelle remain missing, and their cases are still unsolved.
If you have any information, you are encouraged to contact the Nekoosa Police Department.Last Seen: Aug 20, 1999
