UPDATE: The search for 4-year-old Johnathan Everett Boley, who went missing from Jasper, Alabama, on New Year’s Eve, ended tragically as authorities confirmed his body was found on Friday. The Walker County Sheriff’s Office reported the grim discovery just two miles from his father’s home, with Johnathan’s dog, Buck, found alive beside him.
In a press conference, Sheriff Nick Smith stated, “We have located Johnathan, and Johnathan is deceased.” The precise circumstances surrounding the toddler’s death remain unclear as investigations continue.
Johnathan was last seen around noon on December 31, 2023, during a visit to his father, Jameson Boley. His 6-year-old brother witnessed him walking away with Buck, prompting a desperate search involving volunteers and the FBI. Search efforts were briefly halted over concerns about possible explosives found on Boley’s property and in nearby woods. Sheriff Smith later confirmed that the devices in the area were non-explosive.
Authorities arrested Jameson Boley after explosive materials were discovered during a search of his property on Thursday. He faces serious charges, including explosives-related offenses and two counts of chemical endangerment of a child. Specific details about these charges have not been disclosed.
Johnathan had been living with his mother, who relocated to Florida last year. He was visiting his father as part of a custody agreement when he went missing. Sheriff Smith expressed the community’s devastation over the tragedy, stating, “This is going to be a very hard time for our community.”
As investigations unfold, community members are urged to come together in support of the family during this challenging time. More updates are expected as authorities continue to gather information.
Stay tuned for further developments on this heartbreaking story, as the community seeks answers and justice for young Johnathan.
