The body of Thomas Medlin, a 15-year-old from St. James who had been missing since January, was recovered from the water off Red Hook in Brooklyn on March 7, authorities said. His identity was confirmed today.
According to Suffolk County Police, detectives determined through an extensive investigation that Medlin’s last known location was on the pedestrian walkway of the Manhattan Bridge on January 9 at approximately 7:06 p.m. The last activity on his cell phone occurred at 7:09 p.m., and a nearby surveillance camera captured what appeared to be a splash in the water at approximately 7:10 p.m. Medlin was never observed leaving the bridge via any pedestrian exits.
As part of the investigation, detectives conducted extensive video canvassing and reviewed digital evidence. Subpoenas and search warrants were issued to examine multiple social media and online gaming profiles as well as electronic devices associated with Medlin. Authorities said the forensic examination determined that those platforms were not connected to his disappearance.
Police said there is no indication of criminal activity.
Detectives have remained in continuous communication with Medlin’s family and are continuing to work with law enforcement partners as the investigation proceeds.
Medlin was originally reported missing on January 9 after leaving the Stony Brook School at approximately 3:30 p.m. He ran to the Stony Brook Train Station and was later seen at Grand Central Station in Manhattan at about 5:30 p.m. that same day.
At the time he disappeared, Medlin was described as white, 5 feet 4 inches tall, and 130 pounds. He was last seen wearing a black jacket with red stripes, dark sweatpants with white stripes, a black backpack, and glasses.
