In a heartwarming rescue operation, FBI agents in Newark, New Jersey, successfully located a missing 17-year-old autistic boy after an intense two-day search in challenging conditions. The teenager, who disappeared on Friday near his home, was found unharmed in rugged terrain after enduring near-freezing temperatures.

Joel Medina, described as functioning at the level of a six-year-old, spent several nights outdoors, leading to a massive search effort that included local authorities and the Coast Guard. The collaborative mission underscored the urgency and commitment of those involved in ensuring his safe return.

Speaking to Fox News Digital, FBI Director Kash Patel expressed his admiration for the operation, stating, “This story exemplifies the best of the FBI — our swift action, the mobilization of outstanding teams and resources, and our unwavering determination to protect and serve our fellow Americans.”

An image released by the Egg Harbor Township Police Department shows Joel Medina, who was finally rescued by the FBI after being missing in the wilderness for two days. The operation involved coordinated efforts between FBI Newark agents and the world-class CIRG pilot teams, alongside local and federal partners.

Director Patel further praised the successful outcome, saying, “Thanks to the bravery of our agents and the exceptional coordination with our partners, Joel is home safe from what could have been dire circumstances. I am incredibly proud of our teams and deeply thankful for this resolution.”

“Thanks to our brave agents out of FBI Newark, world class CIRG pilot teams, and coordination with great local and federal partners — Joel is home safe from what could’ve been dire circumstances,” he continued. “I’m so proud of our teams and thankful for the resolution.”

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

Surveillance video outside his home did not show him leaving, prompting concern he was possibly abducted.

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

The FBI found a point of interest using an aviation team. (BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP )

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.

On Saturday morning, detectives asked the FBI for assistance and agents conducted an exhaustive neighborhood canvass for any possible surveillance video, searched the area surrounding the Medina household, and participated in a grid search of the woods near the home. Agents also interviewed everyone with a turkey hunting license to locate trail camera footage.

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.

FBI Director Kash Patel listens during the Senate Committee on Intelligence hearings on Capitol Hill Wednesday, March 18, 2026, in Washington.  (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)

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.