Body of missing teen with autism recovered from Neuse River, police say

KINSTON, N.C. (WTVD) -- A group of divers recovered the body of a missing teenager Sunday afternoon from Neuse River.

According to the Kinston Police Department, the Onslow County Sheriff's Office found 16-year-old Jaylen Green around 1:30 p.m., ending an extensive search involving multiple agencies. Green, who was autistic, had been reported missing after leaving the Nature Center near the river on Saturday.

Chief Keith Goyette shared the following statement:

"Our hearts are heavy with the loss of Jaylen Green. On behalf of the entire department, I want to express our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. We are grateful to everyone who contributed to the search and ask the community to continue offering their support to the family during this incredibly difficult time."