Missing Rutgers Student Last Seen Hitchhiking
A student at Rutgers University, Mortimer “Morty” Wortman IV, has been unaccounted for for more than two weeks. His family reports he was last observed hitchhiking with someone he knew—an acquaintance who had previously been arrested for threatening him with a knife.
The 22-year-old senior was seen on surveillance footage on November 21 in the parking lot of a community day school in Jackson, New Jersey. His car was later found at that location, according to reports.
In the footage, Wortman enters the car, and they drive away together.
According to Wortman’s family, the same individual—his name has been mentioned in connection with a prior incident—had threatened him previously. Mortimer Wortman III, Morty’s father, recounted a troubling episode from the summer when his son was reportedly chased. “A member of the public called and he was arrested. There was no bail. They released him,” he stated. The family is now urging law enforcement to reconsider interviewing this individual, believing he may have played a role in Morty’s disappearance.
“I think my brother tends to trust people too easily. He might have felt forced or persuaded to get in that car,” remarked Ivan Marks, Morty’s brother.
The driver in question has been identified as Adam Zarouk, who faced a court hearing regarding the earlier knife incident. However, the court adjourned the hearing without providing any reason. It was reported that Zarouk is not currently labeled as a suspect in Wortman’s disappearance.
Wortman’s mother, Johanna Reyes, expressed concern about Zarouk’s intentions, saying, “I haven’t met him, but I feel like he’s been following my son.” She mentioned observing suspicious behavior near their home.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his whereabouts, family members are actively searching the large forested area adjacent to the school. They cling to hope. “Our family believes he’s alive somewhere. We have faith,” Marks said.
Wortman is described as a nature enthusiast who has a humble personality. His father emphasized their longing, stating, “We just want him home.”
Rutgers University officials are cooperating with police in the ongoing search for Wortman. In a statement, they expressed their sympathy for the situation, appealing for any insights that could assist in locating him.
Wortman was last seen wearing a black T-shirt, a wine-red hoodie, and blue jeans. He has noticeable piercings, including one in his nose, and is considered a person in distress by local authorities.
