Update 12/13/23: Missing Rochester Institute of Technology student Matthew Grant has been found and has been reunited with his family, according to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.

The MCSO released a statement on Wednesday:

"Thank you to all of the deputies and investigators who worked so tenaciously coordinating with multiple agencies, following up leads, using technology, and working with the family to locate Matthew. 

We appreciate our partnership with the media who helped spread awareness and our efforts to reunite him with his family."

Spectrum News 1 spoke with Grant's family, who say Grant was found on a hiking trail in Pennsylvania Wednesday evening by a State Parks Police search party.

Grant, 22, was last seen on Nov. 20 at about 10 p.m. Search efforts expanded after he was spotted at a truck stop near Exit 41 in Syracuse. His EZ-Pass was used on I-81 near Exit 36.

New York is among the top 10 states for the number of missing persons cases, currently ranked at number six, with California at the top. Spectrum News 1 has been following the story of missing RIT student, Matthew Grant.

A missing person is defined as an individual who is not where they are expected to be. However, the complexity of each case varies, influenced by factors such as age, medical conditions and disabilities, which determine the extent of law enforcement involvement in the search efforts.

In the case of Matthew Grant, the following details have been reported:

  • Went missing on Nov. 20, 2023, around 10 p.m.
  • The search expanded after he was spotted at a truck stop near Exit 41 in Syracuse
  • His EZ-Pass was used on I-81 near Exit 36

Matthew Grant does not have any medical issues or disabilities that could explain his disappearance. The story gained attention due to the efforts of his family. While law enforcement is often the first line in missing person cases, depending on the circumstances, a search and rescue team may also become involved.

Chief Mark Hopkins of Greater Philadelphia Search and Rescue emphasizes the importance of self-care for families during such trying times. He advises families to engage a spokesperson, maintain patience and allow the search and rescue teams to focus on expanding the investigation efficiently.

In the unfortunate event that someone you know goes missing:

  • File a missing persons report immediately with an updated photo
  • Utilize community outreach to maximize awareness
  • Maintain a record of communication with law enforcement to ensure a coordinated effort
  • Check hospitals and local shelters for any information

Chief Hopkins also notes an increase in missing person reports during holidays, urging heightened awareness during these times.