Missing UNH Student Could Be Hiking, says Mother

As University of New Hampshire and Seacoast police continue to investigate the disappearance of 19-year-old Jonathan Zygmont, his mother told a local news outlet that she thinks the teen may be hiking.

Zygmont, a freshman at UNH, graduated from Windham High School this year. He has been missing since Tuesday, when he was last seen in Portsmouth's Prescott Park.

And while authorities continue to search the area and ask for the public's help in finding Zygmont, his mother, Lynne, told the Lawrence Eagle-Tribune that she is hopeful that teen went hiking.

“He’s really an avid hiker,” Lynne Zygmont told the newspaper. “Maybe he’s headed for the White Mountains or out west, maybe Wyoming or Colorado.”

A comment on a previous Windham Patch story seems to back the notion that Zygmont may be hiking.

 ... if hes on a hiking trail hes not on the trail itself hell be off the path. 90% of the time he has his backpack. Its full of hiking/camping equipment.

The 5-foot-11 Zygmont is said to weigh 175 pounds. He was last seen wearing black shoes, khaki pants, and a brown sweatshirt with the word “Burton” on it in red lettering. He was carrying a black North Face backpack. 

Police do not suspect foul play but said they are concerned for his well-being. They said Zygmont may have been having relationship difficulties and was "despondent."

“Based on the information we have we’re eager to find Jonathan and make sure he’s OK,” said UNH Police Chief Paul Dean in a statement released Wednesday.

UNH spokeswoman Erika Mantz said Friday there is no new information in the case.

"Missing" signs featuring a photo of Zygmont were taped to trees in Prescott Park.

Police urge anyone with information on Zygmont’s whereabouts to call police at 603-862-1427.