Stephen Wardenski, 64, was last seen the morning of January 16, 2026, in Toms River, New Jersey. Surveillance footage shows him leaving his residence around 9:30 a.m. on an older red and black mountain bicycle, last recorded near State Highway 37 and State Highway 166. He left his wallet and cellular telephone at home and was carrying a backpack while wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt or jacket.

Wardenski is described as a white male, 5 feet 8 inches tall, about 190 pounds, with gray or partly gray hair and brown eyes. A family member reports he gave a large sum of money shortly before he disappeared for the care of his pet bird, a detail that has concerned relatives. The Toms River Police Department is actively investigating and asking the public for help.

If anyone saw Stephen on January 16 near State Highway 37 or 166, or has information about his route or where he might have gone, please contact the Toms River Police Department.