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Waretown Today
By the People, for the People
Drone Aids Search for Missing Juvenile in Ocean County
Police locate child in woods using aerial surveillance technology
Published on Feb. 13, 2026
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A juvenile reported missing during frigid nighttime conditions in Ocean Township, New Jersey was safely located in a wooded area near Oyster Creek after police deployed a drone to assist in the search. The drone's aerial surveillance helped officers quickly reach the child and ensure their safety.
Why it matters
The use of drone technology in this search and rescue operation highlights how aerial surveillance can improve response times and outcomes in urgent missing person cases, especially when dealing with challenging terrain and diminishing visibility.
The details
Ocean Township Police were dispatched on February 12 for a report of a runaway juvenile. With temperatures below freezing and visibility diminishing, patrol officers canvassed surrounding neighborhoods and nearby wooded terrain while investigators reviewed location-sharing data to narrow the possible search area. Sgt. Michael Matelski launched the department's unmanned aerial system to provide real-time overhead surveillance of dense sections of woods that were difficult to access on foot. The drone identified the juvenile in a heavily wooded area along Oyster Creek, allowing officers to reach the child quickly and ensure their safety.
- On February 12, Ocean Township Police were dispatched for a report of a runaway juvenile.
The players
Ocean Township Police
The local law enforcement agency that responded to the missing juvenile report and utilized drone technology to locate the child.
Sgt. Michael Matelski
An officer with the Ocean Township Police who piloted the department's drone to provide aerial surveillance during the search.
The takeaway
This incident demonstrates how aerial technology and coordinated field operations can improve response times and outcomes in urgent missing person investigations, especially in challenging environments.
