Missing American journalist shown in hostage video

BEIRUT -- An American freelance journalist missing in Syria since mid-August has been shown in a video clip posted online, blindfolded and saying "Oh, Jesus" in a frightened voice in the custody of armed men.

The video, which came to light Monday, was the first sign of Austin Tice's condition since he disappeared. Tice, 31, a former Marine, had been reporting on the civil war for The Washington Post, McClatchy Newspapers and others.

The Tice family confirmed that it is their son in the video.

In the 47-second clip, Tice tries to recite the Muslim declaration of faith, or shahada, but switches to English and says, "Oh, Jesus. Oh, Jesus" and rests his head on a captor's arm. -- AP