Missing autistic teen found in Malverne expected to be OK
<p>Officials say a missing autistic teen who was found in Malverne is doing well and is expected to make a full recovery.</p>
News 12 Staff
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Feb 13, 2018, 10:23 AM
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Updated 2,275 days ago
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Officials say a missing autistic teen who was found in Malverne is doing well and is expected to make a full recovery.
Joseph “Michael” Barbella, 17, disappeared from the San-Dee Lanes Bowling Alley around 5 p.m. Monday.
Shortly after, a search commenced through the night for the teen, including community members and first responders.
According to police, a woman saw clothes hanging on her fence on Mcintosh Court around 8 a.m. and dialed 911. Barbella was found a short time later at the location, which was about a mile away from where he went missing.
In exclusive video taken by News 12, Barbella is seen shivering and underdressed as first responders wrapped blankets around him.
“He was down to just a tank top…and a pair of athletic pants. He looked like he was freezing,” said MTA Officer Doug Joseph, who made the rescue with his K-9 partner, Holland.
Barbella was taken to Nassau University Medical Center. He is said to be doing well and expected to make a full recovery.
Meanwhile, law enforcement officials say they'd like to thank all of the community members and volunteers who came out to help with the search.
