Jacksonville State University student missing for over a week found safe in New York

NEW YORK -- A college student from Alabama has been found in New York after he went missing for over a week, according to the university's police department.

James Nichols, a student at Jacksonville State University, had not been seen since Aug. 28 but the university confirmed that he had been located safe in New York on Friday and that he has spoken with his family.

"From the moment this report was made, our public safety professionals have worked tirelessly, and we are grateful for the outcome," said Jacksonville State University Police Chief Michael Barton. "We want to thank the public for the tips and information shared, as well as our law enforcement partners across the country who assisted in this case. Their cooperation helped us bring this to a safe resolution."

Nichols, who is from Ohatchee, Alabama, is believed to have departed the campus on Aug. 28 at approximately 3 a.m. in his 1999 blue, four-door Chevrolet Malibu, officials initially said.

His vehicle was recorded that morning traveling north on Highway 431 in Glencoe, Alabama, officials said. The next day, the car was spotted in Pawling, New York, which is approximately 73 miles from New York City.

Barton said officers had been "working around the clock since the report was made late Tuesday" to locate the student.

"Out of respect for the privacy of James and his family, no further information is available for release," said Barton.