UNH Police Continue to Follow Leads in the Case of Missing Student; Suspend Active Search

Friday, September 20, 2013

DURHAM, N.H. - Police at the University of New Hampshire continue to follow leads in the case of missing 19-year-old first-year student Jonathan Zygmont but this afternoon will suspend an active search of the area near Prescott Park in Portsmouth where he was last seen Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2013, at approximately 8:30 p.m. Police do not suspect foul play but have reason to be concerned for his well-being.

"We're eager to find Jonathan and make sure he's OK," said UNH Police Chief Paul Dean. "He has done nothing wrong and he's not in trouble but it's important for his family and friends to know where he is. Because in the past he had expressed a desire to go out west and live a more simple life we have sent his photo and description to law enforcement agencies nationwide."

"We just want to know he's okay," said his mother, Lynne Zygmont Clay. "Jon is an avid and experienced outdoorsman and we're hopeful that he is hiking or camping and just not aware that we're looking for him. We love him and want him to know that we are not upset if he wishes to take some time off to travel and hike but we would like to hear from him so that we aren't worried."

Zygmont is described as a white male, 5 feet 11 inches, 150 pounds. He was last seen wearing black shoes, khaki pants, and a brown sweatshirt with the word "Burton" on it in red lettering. He was carrying a black North Face backpack.

UNH police are extremely grateful for the federal, state, and local law enforcement support received in the search for Zygmont.

Anyone with information on Zygmont's whereabouts is asked to call police at (603) 862-1427.

Photos of Jonathan Zygmont:
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