Missing Autistic Teenager From Brewster Found In Woods

BREWSTER, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- A Putnam County teenager with severe autism who had been missing since Thursday has been found safe.

Diego Alberto Salazar, 19, was found Friday after an intensive overnight search, Putnam County Sheriff Donald Smith said.

Salazar, of Brewster, was last seen at his home on Allan Road around 11:30 a.m. Thursday. The teen also has epilepsy and authorities were concerned that he may have need medical attention.

Just before 8:30 a.m. Friday, a State Police helicopter spotted a person in the woods about a half-mile northwest of the Salazar's home, officials said. Searchers on foot then went in and confirmed that it was the missing teen.

Salazar did not appear injured, but he was taken to Putnam Hospital Center in Carmel to be evaluated before being brought home, officials said.

More than 80 personnel from New York and Connecticut as well as several police and emergency services agencies, fire departments, first responders, volunteers and search and rescue teams were involved in the effort.