A 15-year-old boy left school and never came home. One day, one train ride, and a family still waiting for answers.

Hi 👋 guys today I am posting about a brand new case, today we will be discussing the disappearance of Thomas Yan Medlin. A young 15-year old boy who went missing on January 9th, 2026.

📍 Missing Teen: Thomas “Yan” Medlin, 15

New York City 🌃

Fifteen-year-old Thomas Medlin (sometimes referred to as Thomas Yan) of St. James, Long Island, has been missing since Friday, January 9, 2026. His disappearance has prompted an ongoing investigation by Suffolk County Police and NYPD partners.

After leaving Stony Brook School that afternoon, Thomas traveled by Long Island Rail Road into New York City. Surveillance footage later confirmed his presence at Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan in the early evening.

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🕒 Timeline of Last Known Movements

    •    ~3:30 PM — Left school on Long Island

    •    ~5:30 PM — Seen at Grand Central Terminal

    •    7:06 PM — Captured on surveillance on the Manhattan Bridge pedestrian walkway

    •    7:09 PM — Last cellphone activity recorded

    •    7:10 PM — A nearby camera recorded what investigators described as a splash in the water

    •    Police report he was not seen exiting the bridge afterward.

👤 Description at Time of Disappearance

    •    Clothing: Black jacket with red stripes, dark sweatpants with white stripes

    •    Accessories: Glasses, black backpack

    •    Height/Weight: Approx. 5’4”, 130 lbs

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🔎 Investigation Notes

Authorities have conducted extensive video review and digital analysis. Police have stated there is no indication of criminal activity at this time, and no confirmed evidence linking his disappearance to online gaming contacts, despite early family concerns. The case remains open as investigators continue following all leads.

Thomas’s family describes his actions that day as out of character, and loved ones continue to search for answers.

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📞 How to Help

Anyone with credible information regarding Thomas Medlin’s movements in NYC on January 9 is urged to contact:

Suffolk County Police Department — Fourth Squad Detectives

📱 631-854-8452

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🧡 Please share responsibly and keep Thomas and his family in your thoughts.

🌟L.W.