Body of missing teen found near Elizabeth Bridge after he was reported missing

ELIZABETH, Pa. — The body of a missing teen was found by crews near the Elizabeth Bridge Friday, ending a weeks long roller coaster for the family of 15-year-old Jeno Moretti.

Moretti was reported missing in the days before Thanksgiving and his body was found by crews with specialized equipment.

“We had special teams in here from Charles County, Maryland and also from the Christian Side Ministry search and rescue team,” Elizabeth Borough Police Chief William Sombo said.

Rescue crews have been conducting extensive searches in the area near the bridge for weeks now. A tip was called in to investigators that someone matching Moretti’s description was seen walking up the stairs to the bridge in the early morning hours.

Officials believed bullying on social media may have contributed to what happened. They said Moretti was targeted for being adopted. Before he disappeared, the West Jefferson Hills School District sent a letter to students about an investigation into an Instagram account that targeted students and staff with hurtful and potentially dangerous comments.

Moretti’s family sent Channel 11 a statement:

“We want to express our gratitude to the Elizabeth Borough police especially Chief Sombo and Elizabeth fire departments and river rescue for their tireless efforts in the search for Jeno. And for coordinating the search team and divers from Maryland. And thanking the Maryland search crew for bring Jeno home. The love and support from the Jefferson Hills, Elizabeth and surrounding communities was greatly appreciated and no words can express how we feel from the outpouring of support. #Jenoshome”

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