Fri Jan 02 20:40:00 UTC 2026: News Article:
Body of Missing 4-Year-Old Found in Walker County; Father Faces Charges
Jasper, AL – The search for 4-year-old Johnathan Everett Boley tragically ended Friday with the discovery of his body in Walker County. Johnathan had been missing since approximately 11:30 a.m. Wednesday after being last seen in the 7000 block of Highway 195 in Jasper.
Sheriff Nick Smith confirmed that Johnathan’s father, Jameson Kyle Boley, reported him missing around 1 p.m. Wednesday. A massive search effort ensued, encompassing 500 acres and involving over 161 volunteers, 126 first responders, the FBI, drones, divers, tracking dogs, and a helicopter from Montgomery. The search was briefly suspended Thursday after potential explosives were flagged, but these were later determined to be non-explosive. The missing child was reported to be with his older brother and a black Labrador retriever, also missing, when he disappeared.
Compounding the tragedy, Jameson Kyle Boley has been arrested and charged with unlawful manufacture of a destructive device or bacteriological weapon and two counts of chemical endangerment of a child connected to methamphetamines. The charges stem from what were initially believed to be explosive devices found on the property. While officials later determined they were not explosive, neighbors reported hearing explosions for weeks, including one on Wednesday, though its connection to the missing child remains unconfirmed.
According to Sheriff Smith, Johnathan’s mother resides in Florida, and the father had limited visitation rights. The child was visiting for the holidays when he went missing. Records show Jameson Boley served in the Army from March 2003 to November 2006. His discharge information remains confidential.
Despite the serious charges, Sheriff Smith stated that the father has been cooperating with the investigation.
Johnathan’s aunt, Kim Smith, described him as a country boy who loved nature, Paw Patrol, and running.
A vigil for Johnathan will be held at 7 p.m. CT Friday at Cornerstone Church, located at 7719 Highway 195 in Jasper.
This remains a developing story.
Summary of Text:
A 4-year-old boy, Johnathan Everett Boley, went missing in Walker County. A large-scale search ensued, utilizing numerous resources and volunteers. Tragically, his body was found on Friday. The boy’s father, Jameson Kyle Boley, has been arrested and charged with manufacturing a destructive device and chemical endangerment of a child after suspicious items were found on his property. The child was visiting his father during the holidays. A vigil is being held for Johnathan.
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