Body Found in Riverhead is Missing Man

A body found in a wooded area of Riverhead has been confirmed to be that of Steven Mayer, who went missing earlier this month, according to his son-in-law and law enforcement officials.

Mayer, 65, of Great Neck, had been missing since October 4. An autopsy was being performed to confirm the body's identity, said son-in-law Mark Klinger. Mayer's body was found by his car in a densely wooded area on private property in the Riverhead area, officials said.

Mayer, a scrap metals trader, left for his job in Huntington two Mondays ago and was never seen again.

He had called his home and a phone number once belonging to his deceased parents. One call was traced to a cell tower in Riverhead, officials said.

Last Sunday, some 2000 family members, friends and concerned strangers mounted a massive search in Riverhead; but found nothing. In addition, searchers combed Great Neck, Huntington and Washington Heights, where Mayer grew up.

Some believed he had become confused or disoriented. His family, however, never gave up hope, insisting he would turn up alive.

"My Steven is out there somewhere and I want him back," said his wife Susan Mayer last Monday. He is a father of four and grandfather of ten. He had once served as president of a Great Neck synagogue. To this point, police have not suspected foul play in the disappearance.

Today, a spokesperson for the family thanked those who looked for Mayer.

"The family of Steven Mayer is very grateful for the support of thousands of volunteers from the Riverhead community, as well as several surrounding Long Island communities in the search," said Jennifer Kim.

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