Gallup Police Seek Help Locating Missing 16-Year-Old Teen

Gallup Police are asking residents to help locate Melik Nelson, a 16-year-old Native American youth who was last seen shortly after midnight on Dec. 31. Nelson is described as 5 feet 8 inches tall, about 180 pounds, with brown eyes and medium-length black hair. He was last seen at approximately 1:07 a.m. in the area of the Pinon Hills apartments in Gallup wearing a black sweater, black pants, and yellow and black Nike shoes. Witnesses reported Nelson running away from his residence.

Authorities say Nelson remains missing as of Jan. 3 and are asking anyone with information to contact Metro Dispatch at (505) 722-2002 or the Gallup Police Department at (505) 863-9365. If someone sees Nelson and there is an immediate safety concern, call 911.

Missing teenagers present urgent public health and safety concerns. Young people who leave home or disappear face risks from exposure to harsh weather, accidents, substance-related harms, and exploitation. Each hour away from family and services can increase the chances of medical emergencies or victimization. The community response is therefore critical: neighbors, family friends, and local businesses can provide leads that aid search efforts and shorten the time a young person is separated from care.

This case also highlights broader community challenges. McKinley County and neighboring areas serve a large Native American population, and advocates have repeatedly raised concerns about limited access to youth-focused mental health care, housing instability, and gaps in social services. Those systemic issues can make it harder for families to find timely help and for teenagers to access supports that reduce the likelihood of running away or becoming lost.

Local organizations and agencies often coordinate searches and welfare checks for missing youth, and community members can support those efforts by reporting sightings, checking places young people in their networks might visit, and keeping channels of communication open with police. Privacy and safety are important; do not attempt to intervene if a situation seems unsafe. Share only verified information with authorities to avoid spreading unconfirmed reports.

For now, Gallup Police continue to seek credible tips about Nelson’s location. Anyone with information is asked to call Metro Dispatch at (505) 722-2002 or the Gallup Police Department at (505) 863-9365. Community vigilance can make a decisive difference in bringing a missing teen home safely.