Saint James Teen Missing After Being Last Seen on Manhattan Bridge, Police Say

 NEW YORK, NY — Suffolk County police say missing 15‑year‑old Thomas Medlin of Saint James was last seen on the Manhattan Bridge pedestrian walkway moments before surveillance footage captured a splash in the East River below, according to an update released Wednesday.

Medlin left Stony Brook School around 3:30 p.m. on January 9 and traveled into Manhattan, where he was spotted at Grand Central Terminal around 5:30 p.m. Detectives, after reviewing extensive video and digital evidence, tracked him to the bridge at approximately 7:06 p.m. His cellphone showed its last activity at 7:09 p.m., followed by the splash at 7:10 p.m. nearby. Authorities noted he was never seen exiting via pedestrian paths.

Police emphasized there is no indication of criminal activity and said they remain in close communication with the family while working with other agencies. No body has been recovered, and the investigation remains active.

The case has drawn widespread concern. New York missing persons advocate Erin Daly‑Spano urged caution on social media, noting Medlin had insecurities about his voice and was recently transferred to a private school due to bullying. “I’m praying it’s not true … The splash has not been confirmed and neither has his identification. There’s no body,” she wrote, calling for prayers and vigilance on trains and streets.

Family members believe Medlin may have traveled to New York City to meet someone he connected with on Roblox, adding another layer of worry to the case.

Medlin is described as 5‑foot‑4, 130 pounds, wearing a black hoodie with red, dark pants with white stripes, a black backpack, and glasses.

Authorities ask anyone with information to contact Fourth Squad detectives at 631‑854‑8452 or call 911.

The disappearance has sparked community discussions about youth mental health and school safety, with police continuing efforts to bring closure to the family.

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