FBI rescues missing autistic teen after two days lost in frigid wilderness

FIRST ON FOX: FBI agents in Newark, New Jersey, rescued a missing 17-year-old autistic boy after a tense, nearly two-day search in near-freezing temperatures, finding him in rugged terrain after efforts by local authorities and the Coast Guard came up empty.

FBI Director Kash Patel told Fox News Digital the rescue highlighted "the best of the FBI."
"This story is the best of the FBI — jumping into action quickly, mobilizing our outstanding teams and resources with great partners, and refusing to give up in order to protect and serve our fellow American," Patel said.

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The initial report was that Medina wandered into a heavily wooded area of preserved land nearby that contains a trail system.

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The Egg Harbor Township Police Department responded along with search and rescue teams from Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland and Gloucester counties.

Drone teams, New Jersey State Police and U.S.

Coast Guard choppers conducted air searches and K-9 teams were deployed to conduct a ground search.

Underwater search and rescue teams with divers were also sent to search nearby bodies of water.

An FBI plane was sent up into the air at about 9:30 p.m.

local time to conduct a grid search of the area, and after three hours, discovered a potential point of interest deep within the preserved land.

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Agents trekked through muddy terrain in the dark and eventually found Medina curled up in a ball next to a tree.

Medina, who was only wearing shorts and a T-shirt, was guided by the FBI out of the woods, as the aviation team stayed overhead, ensuring they made it out safely.

When agents reemerged, many of them were scratched and bleeding from navigating the heavy brush.