The search for a missing 4-year-old boy in Alabama has ended in tragedy. Authorities confirmed on January 2 that the body of Johnathan Everett Boley, known to family as “John John,” was found roughly two miles from his father’s home in Jasper, Alabama . He had been missing since New Year’s Eve .
The Disappearance and Search
Johnathan was reported missing on December 31 after wandering away from a rural property on Highway 195 while playing outside with his 6-year-old brother and their black Labrador retriever, Buck . He was last seen wearing a yellow Mickey Mouse shirt, black pants, and Paw Patrol shoes .
The disappearance prompted a massive three-day search involving hundreds of volunteers, law enforcement officers, K-9 units, drones, and aircraft . The search covered over 500 acres of wooded land . Sheriff Nick Smith described the boy as “an adventurous boy” who loved the outdoors .
Discovery of the Body
Johnathan’s body was found partially submerged in a creek area near a volunteer search team . His loyal dog, Buck, was found alive right beside him and reportedly helped lead volunteers to the location . Sheriff Smith confirmed the tragic news, stating the community was “devastated” . A preliminary autopsy indicated that the cause of death was consistent with hypothermia, with no signs of trauma or foul play .
Father Arrested on Unrelated Charges
During the search, investigators discovered explosive devices on the father’s property, which complicated the search efforts . The father, Jameson Kyle Boley, was arrested and charged with unlawful manufacture of a destructive device and two counts of chemical endangerment of a child . Authorities emphasized that these charges were unrelated to Johnathan’s disappearance and death . Methamphetamine was also reportedly found in the home .
Johnathan lived with his mother in Florida and was visiting his father for the holidays under a custody arrangement . His mother traveled to Alabama upon learning of his disappearance and is cooperating with investigators .
@nbcnews The body of 4-year-old Johnathan Everett Boley, who went missing in #Alabama on New Year’s Eve, has been found, authorities say.
