It's been 38 years since Joseph Helt went missing from the Ulster County region. What happened on that January night in 1987?

Ellenville, New York Teen Goes Missing in 1987

According to the New York State Trooper website, 17 year old Joseph Helt was last seen in the around Sam's Point in Ulster County.

More specifically, he was seen by the ice caves. Helt was last seen wearing a camo jacket, t-shirt, long sleeved thermal shirt, a grey hooded sweatshirt and white high-top sneakers.

New York State Police
New York State Police
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Sadly, the case has gone unsolved since 1987 and Helt hasn't been seen since.

What Happened The Night Joseph Helt Went Missing?

A website called Stand As One had been following the cold case of missing teen Joseph Helt and shared more details of what allegedly went down.

According to the site, Helt was partying with friends near the Mount Cathalia Ski Lodge. Apparently this was a frequent hangout for the local kids.

Helt allegedly left the party with 3 others in a Subaru driving towards Sam's Point. However, the car got stuck in the snow. At that point it's alleged that Helt because frustrated after several failed attempts at moving the vehicle.

Google Maps
Google Maps
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He then took off on foot towards the mountain to Ellenville to get help around 3:30 am. That was the last time the friends that were with Helt saw him. None of them were able to catch up with him on foot.

Helt didn't show up to work the next day.

NBC News and Dateline have featured Joseph Helt's story and is still unsolved in 2025.

Do You Have Any Information About Joseph Helt?

The New York State Police are asking the public for any information they may have about Joseph Helt, whether it be his whereabouts or what happened that night in January 1987.

If you have any information call New York State Police Troop F in Ellenville at 845-626-2863 or email them at nysvicap@troopers.ny.gov.

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