Missing Teen Thomas Medlin Traced to Manhattan Bridge, Police Debunk Roblox Theory

Thomas Medlin, a missing teenager from Long Island, New York, has been found at the Manhattan Bridge according to police.

Footage obtained by the Suffolk County Police department shows Medlin, 15, who left his home in St. James on 9 January, was seen on a pedestrian walkway on the bridge on the same day at 7:06 p.m.. The authorities informed the media of this development to their ongoing investigation on 28 January, Wednesday.

Medlin's parents told the police that they believed their child left home to meet up with someone he met on the online video game Roblox, which the police have yet to find proof of.

CCTV Footage Places Teen on Manhattan Bridge

According to investigators, surveillance footage reviewed as part of the inquiry shows Medlin walking alone on the Manhattan Bridge's pedestrian path shortly after leaving his family home. The bridge, which spans the East River and links Lower Manhattan with Brooklyn, has become the central focus of the search after police confirmed the timestamp and location of the footage.

Authorities said the video represents the last confirmed sighting of the teenager. No evidence has so far emerged to suggest he was accompanied or coerced, and police have stressed that the images do not show any obvious signs of distress at the time.

Police Dismiss Online Gaming Link

In the days following Medlin's disappearance, speculation circulated online that the teen may have travelled to New York City to meet someone he had encountered through the popular online gaming platform Roblox—something his mother also believed to be true. However, Suffolk County Police said they have found no digital or physical evidence to support this theory.

Investigators have reportedly examined Medlin's online activity, including gaming accounts and communications, and found nothing to indicate that he arranged a meeting with another person. Police have urged the public to avoid spreading unverified claims, warning that misinformation can hinder ongoing investigations.

Family's Account and Growing Concern

Medlin was reported missing after leaving his St. James home without taking additional clothing or personal belongings. His parents have said his disappearance was entirely out of character, describing him as a responsible teenager with no known history of running away.

Since his disappearance, the family has made repeated public appeals for information, expressing growing concern as days turned into weeks. Police said they remain in close contact with the family and continue to provide updates as new information becomes available.

Search Efforts and Public Appeal

Law enforcement agencies have expanded their search efforts in and around the Manhattan Bridge area, including canvassing nearby neighbourhoods and reviewing additional CCTV footage from surrounding streets and transit hubs. While no further confirmed sightings have been identified, police say the investigation remains active.

Officers have encouraged anyone who may have seen Medlin on 9 January, particularly in New York City, to come forward. Even seemingly minor details, they said, could prove significant in establishing his movements after he was last seen on the bridge.

Investigation Ongoing

As the search continues, authorities have reiterated that there is no indication of foul play at this stage, though all possibilities remain under consideration. Police say their priority is locating Medlin and ensuring his safety.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Suffolk County Police or local law enforcement immediately, as investigators work to piece together the teenager's movements following his appearance on the Manhattan Bridge.