Missing 4-Year-Old Alabama Boy Found Dead After Lengthy Search

Authorities in Alabama have confirmed the tragic discovery of four-year-old Johnathan Everett Boley’s body after a prolonged search. The boy went missing on New Year’s Eve near his father’s home in Jasper.

Details of the Search

Johnathan was last seen around 11:30 a.m. local time on December 31, while playing outdoors with his six-year-old brother and their black Labrador retriever. The Walker County Sheriff’s Office was notified about the child’s disappearance shortly after noon.

According to Sheriff Nick Smith, Johnathan was found approximately three kilometers from his father’s residence. The dog’s return, alive and well, provided a sliver of hope amid the tragedy.

Community Efforts

Local authorities launched a massive search operation, utilizing helicopters equipped with thermal detection technology and canine units. Ground searches continued into the early hours of the following day, with efforts resuming at dawn.

• 126 first responders participated in the search on January 1.
• Over 161 volunteers joined the extensive ground search.
• More than 500 acres were covered in the search efforts.

Background Information

Johnathan lived with his mother in Florida and was visiting his father over the holiday. Family custody arrangements allowed his father, Jameson Kyle Boley, specific visitation rights. The mother traveled from Florida to assist authorities shortly after her son’s disappearance.

Charges Against the Father

Jameson Kyle Boley currently faces charges unrelated to the case of his missing son. He has been charged with the unlawful manufacture of a destructive device and chemical endangerment of a child. These legal issues have indirectly affected the search effort.

Preliminary investigations revealed evidence of explosive devices on Boley’s property, prompting authorities to suspend civilian search efforts for safety reasons. Neighbors had reportedly heard explosions in the area for weeks prior to Johnathan’s disappearance.

Investigation Update

As of the latest updates, the eight flagged devices have been examined and cleared as non-explosive. This decision has allowed volunteer efforts to resume, although concerns about safety remain prevalent.

The heart-wrenching saga surrounding Johnathan Everett Boley has captured the attention of the community, stirring deep emotions among residents and law enforcement alike. The ongoing investigation will seek to clarify all circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.