Cole Thomas’ father speaks about his son’s disappearance in 2016

Tuesday would have been Cole Thomas’ 30th birthday.

On November 25, 2016, Thomas, then 22, was reported missing while en route from Minnesota to Florida.

Friends said Thomas got off Interstate 95, got out of the car near North Elm Street and East Morgan Street in Benson and disappeared. Thomas was traveling with two co-workers.

“I miss him,” Chris Thomas said of his missing son. “I think about him every day. Losing a child is the worst thing that can happen to you.”

Chris Thomas told WRAL News the pain was severe.

“He was funny,” Chris Thomas said of his son. “We liked to play and fool around. (We) always had a good time.”

Chris Thomas explained his understanding of what happened to his son.

“They took drugs,” he said. “It went downhill from there. He was in the wrong place.”

Authorities have still not found Cole Thomas’ body.

“I just want his name to be remembered,” Chris Thomas said.

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An extensive search for Cole Thomas was unsuccessful.

“I know at some point someone will talk,” said Chris Thomas. “It will happen. I will not give up. I will keep going.”

The case is ongoing and the State Bureau of Investigation is continuing its investigation. A $50,000 reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest and conviction in this case.