Woman Missing After Psychiatric Hospital Release

Family searches for Melanie Santo, who left South Jersey facility without ID, phone, or medication

Apr. 6, 2026 at 8:37am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Melanie Santo, a Somers Point woman, has been missing since Friday after being released from a South Jersey psychiatric hospital without her family's knowledge. Her parents, Renee and her father, have been searching for her since then with no leads, concerned for her well-being as she is off her medication and has no personal items with her.

Why it matters

This case highlights the challenges faced by those with mental health issues, especially when they are discharged from care facilities without proper support or supervision. It also raises questions about hospital protocols and the need for better coordination between medical providers and patients' families.

The details

According to Renee Santo, her daughter Melanie was admitted to One Pines Psychiatric Hospital in Galloway Township after a 'psychotic episode'. On Friday, the hospital released Melanie without informing Renee or Melanie's father. Melanie somehow made it to the family's Somers Point apartment, but no one was home. She then left, and her parents have been searching for her since, with a possible sighting at the Atlantic City Outlets on Sunday.

  • Melanie was released from One Pines Psychiatric Hospital on Friday, April 4, 2026.
  • Melanie was last seen at Somers Point News and Tobacco on Friday, April 4, 2026.
  • Renee Santo received a message on Sunday, April 6, 2026, that Melanie may have been spotted at the Atlantic City Outlets.

The players

Melanie Santo

A Somers Point woman who was admitted to a South Jersey psychiatric hospital after a 'psychotic episode' and has been missing since being released on Friday without her family's knowledge or her personal belongings.

Renee Santo

Melanie's mother, who has been searching for her daughter since she went missing on Friday after being released from the psychiatric hospital.

One Pines Psychiatric Hospital

An AtlantiCare facility in Galloway Township that provides mental health and behavioral services, and where Melanie was admitted before being released on Friday.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We are inconsolable. We have searched for 2 days with no leads.Any info will help.”

— Renee Santo, Melanie's mother

What’s next

The Somers Point Police are asking anyone with information about Melanie Santo's whereabouts to call them at 609-927-6161.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for better coordination and communication between mental health facilities, patients, and their families to ensure the safe discharge and support of those dealing with mental health issues.