In a tearful and urgent announcement that has left communities in shock, authorities have provided a devastating update on the case of missing teenager Thomas Medlin. Just moments ago, Suffolk County Police shared details that paint a chilling picture of the 15-year-old’s final known movements, sending waves of sorrow through his family and supporters.

Thomas Medlin, a student from Saint James on Long Island, vanished on January 9, 2026. He left The Stony Brook School around 3:30 p.m., reportedly rushing to catch a train at the nearby Stony Brook station. Surveillance footage later placed him at Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan by approximately 5:30 p.m. What happened next has become the focus of an intense investigation.

According to the latest police findings, after thorough review of video evidence, digital records, and subpoenas, detectives determined that Thomas’s last confirmed location was on the pedestrian walkway of the iconic Manhattan Bridge at around 7:06 p.m. that evening. His cellphone showed its final activity just three minutes later, at 7:09 p.m. Then, in a haunting detail, a nearby surveillance camera captured a sudden splash in the water below at 7:10 p.m. Critically, no footage shows Thomas exiting the bridge through any pedestrian paths.

The announcement, delivered with visible emotion from officers involved, emphasized that there is currently no evidence of foul play or criminal activity. However, the implications are deeply troubling, leaving open questions about what led the teen to that spot on that fateful night. Thomas was described as white, about 5 feet 4 inches tall, weighing around 130 pounds, last seen wearing a black jacket with red stripes, dark sweatpants with white stripes, a black backpack, and glasses.

Early speculation linked his disappearance to online interactions, possibly meeting someone from a gaming platform, but police have clarified that their investigation does not support that connection. The family, including his mother who has spoken publicly about her love and desperation for his safe return, continues to hold out hope amid the heartbreak.

Search efforts remain active, with authorities urging anyone with information—no matter how small—to come forward. Tips can be directed to the Suffolk County Police Fourth Squad Detectives or emergency services. The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children has also assisted in spreading awareness.

This case has gripped the public, highlighting the vulnerabilities faced by young people in an increasingly connected world. As the search enters its third week, the emotional weight of the police’s latest statement underscores the urgency: every second counts in bringing Thomas home. Communities across New York and beyond are praying for a miracle, clinging to the possibility that answers—and Thomas—will soon be found.