Tyler Chase, best known for playing Martin Querley on Nickelodeon’s Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide, is living on the streets in California and has repeatedly rejected offers of housing and treatment, according to local police. Officials say they speak to the former child actor at least once a week as part of ongoing outreach efforts.
Riverside Police Department (RPD) public information officer Ryan Railsback said officers are very familiar with Chase and check on him regularly, according to TMZ. “Officers are very familiar with Chase and interact with him at least once a week,” Railsback said. He said the department’s Public Safety Engagement Team provides assistance during these encounters.
RPD has a special outreach division that works with unhoused individuals and provides access to temporary shelters, mental health services, and drug and alcohol treatment programs. Police say Chase has been offered these resources multiple times. “We’re told police have made countless offers to Tyler, but he consistently turns them down. Ultimately, it’s his choice whether to seek housing or receive treatment.”
Riverside Police have confirmed there is no criminal investigation
Police stressed that Chase is not wanted for any crimes and has no outstanding warrants. “It is important to note that Tyler is not wanted for any crimes and police have not spoken to his family,” officials said. Officials also described his behavior during the encounters as calm and respectful. “In all of his interactions he was courteous and cooperative with officers,” the department said.
While some homeless individuals may react with anger or hostility, police say Chase’s demeanor is different. “While some homeless individuals meet officers with anger or hostility, we are told Tyler is cooperative and always cordial.” Officials continue to check on his well-being, but stress that accepting help remains voluntary unless there are any safety concerns.
What police say about viral video and public concern
Chase’s condition received widespread attention after videos of him looking disheveled on the streets of Riverside circulated on social media. The clip caused concern among fans of Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide. Police said they made Chase aware of the viral videos and that he had no problem with them being shared.
In a widely shared video, a passerby asked if he was from Disney Channel. Chase replied, “Nickelodeon, I was on ‘Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide.'”
The news prompted reactions from former co-stars and fellow child actors. Lindsey Shaw, Devon Werkheiser and Danielle Curtis Lee expressed concern on a podcast, calling the situation “shocking and heartbreaking”. Mighty Ducks actor Shawn Weiss, who has spoken publicly about his own struggles and recovery, reportedly offered Chase a bed at the San Clemente recovery facility he works with.
Also read: ‘First Post’: Kim Kardashian, Kanye West’s teenage daughter North West launch Instagram account, here’s where to follow
