by Jasper, Alabama — A three-day, multi-agency search for a missing Florida child ended in tragedy after 4-year-old Johnathan Boley was found dead Friday afternoon in a wooded area near his father’s home in rural Alabama, authorities confirmed.
Johnathan, affectionately known by his family as “John John,” disappeared on New Year’s Eve while visiting his father for the holidays. His black Labrador mix, Buck, was found alive beside the child when search teams located his remains approximately two miles from the home, according to local reports.
Child last seen playing near fence line
According to the Walker County Sheriff’s Office, Johnathan was last seen around 11:30 a.m. Wednesday at his father’s residence on the 7000 block of Highway 195 in Jasper.
Sheriff Nick Smith said the boy had been playing outside with his older brother and the family dog when he crossed beyond a fence line and did not return.
The child’s father, Jameson Kyle Boley, reported his son missing just before 12:30 p.m., triggering an urgent response from law enforcement.
At the time of his disappearance, Johnathan was described as blond-haired and blue-eyed, wearing a yellow Mickey Mouse shirt, black pants, and Paw Patrol shoes.
Massive search launched across difficult terrain
Authorities immediately deemed Johnathan to be “in danger” and launched a large-scale search involving multiple agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation and several local police departments.
Over the course of three days, search teams used:
- Drones and helicopters
- Tracking dogs
- Divers and boats
- Ground crews and volunteers
Dive teams were also deployed to a nearby pond as a precaution.
Despite the scale of the effort, officials said the search was made difficult by poor weather conditions and rugged terrain.
Sheriff confirms tragic discovery
Sheriff Smith addressed reporters Friday after the discovery was made.
“It is with great sadness that I’m here to announce that we located Johnathan, and Johnathan is deceased,” Smith said. “Like so many of you across our community, we’re devastated by this news. Johnathan was an adventurous boy, and he loved the outdoors.”
Officials confirmed that Buck, the family dog, was found alive and had remained with the child.
Mother traveled from Florida during search
Johnathan lived primarily in Florida with his mother following his parents’ separation. She traveled to Alabama after learning her son was missing.
“The mother did make it in last night from Florida,” Smith said. “We have spoken to her, and she has cooperated with us to the best of her abilities.”
Authorities said they are continuing to support the family as the investigation proceeds.
Father arrested on unrelated charges
During the search, authorities made a significant and unrelated discovery at the father’s property.
Sheriff Smith confirmed that explosive materials were found at the home, prompting officials to halt ground searches in the immediate area for safety reasons.
Jameson Kyle Boley, 40, was arrested and charged with:
- Unlawful manufacturing of a destructive device
- Two counts of chemical endangerment of a child
Smith emphasized that none of the charges are related to Johnathan’s disappearance or death.
“The father has been charged. It has nothing to do with the missing child,” Smith said. “It’s something totally separate, but it did hinder our search.”
Authorities warned volunteers to stay away from the property after confirming at least eight explosive devices were present. Neighbors reportedly told investigators they had heard explosions in the area for weeks prior.
Cause of death not yet released
As of Friday evening, officials had not released a cause of death for Johnathan. The case remains under investigation, and authorities said additional information will be provided when available.
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Community effort remembered amid grief
Sheriff Smith thanked the hundreds of volunteers and first responders who participated in the search.
“Investigators and volunteers have been awesome searching for Johnathan,” he said. “We are grateful to everyone who helped during these extremely difficult days.”
While the outcome was heartbreaking, officials said the community’s response reflected the deep concern and compassion shown for the missing child.
This tragic story has shaken many families. What thoughts or questions does it raise for you about child safety, supervision, or emergency response in rural areas? Share your thoughts in the comments and join the discussion.
