The family of a missing Egg Harbor Township teen gave thanks with a feast.
Joel Medina, 17, was missing for almost 36 hours, when FBI pilots spotted him in the woods.
First-responders then made it to the autistic teen, with police keeping him calm and safe as they walked him for about an hour through the heavy brush in the dark to get him back to his family.
"The Egg Harbor Township Police Department extends our heartfelt thank you to the Medina Family for the incredible lunch they generously provided to our officers and staff," a post on the department's Facebook read Thursday. "Your kindness and thoughtfulness, following the successful safe return of Joel, truly meant a great deal to all of us.
"Moments like these remind us of the strength, compassion, and unity within our community," it continued. "We are grateful for your support and are honored to serve a community that stands together in times of need."
