Missing former NFA teacher found safe in New Jersey

A former Norwich Free Academy teacher who was reported missing in Hamden on Tuesday has been found safe in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, Hamden police said today.

Christopher Merrall, 53, was reported missing to Hamden police by family members who told police he had been despondent.

Hamden Police Capt. Ronald Smith said today that Merrall reported to Cherry Hill, NJ police and was taken to a hospital for medical treatment. Smith said he was safe.

Merrall taught science at NFA for 15 years and was named the school's Teacher of the Year during the 2006-07 school year, said Director of Student Affairs John Iovino.

Iovino said students and staff were concerned when they learned that Merrall was reported missing.

"He certainly was a very beloved and respected teacher when he was here," Iovino said. "The NFA community is very happy and relieved that he is safe and everything is OK."

c.bessette@theday.com