Walker County Authorities Confirm Death of Missing 4-Year-Old Johnathan Everett Boley

WALKER COUNTY, Ala. — Authorities confirmed a tragic outcome in the search for 4-year-old Johnathan Everett Boley, bringing a somber end to a multi-day effort that involved hundreds of volunteers and multiple law enforcement agencies across Walker County.

The Walker County Sheriff’s Office announced Friday that Johnathan, affectionately known as “John John,” was found deceased. Officials said his body was located approximately two miles from his father’s residence, the area where he was last seen.

Authorities also confirmed that the family’s dog, Buck, who was believed to have been with the child when he went missing, was found alive at the scene.

Details surrounding the circumstances of Johnathan’s death have not been released. Officials cited the ongoing investigation and the need to respect the privacy of the family.

Johnathan was reported missing on December 31 after he was last seen around 11:30 a.m. in the 7000 block of Highway 195 in north Walker County, between the Manchester and Thach communities.

Sheriff Nick Smith stated that initial information indicated Johnathan and his brother were playing outside near a fence line with the family dog when Johnathan crossed beyond the fence and did not return.

At the time of his disappearance, Johnathan was described as approximately four feet tall, weighing about 50 pounds, and wearing a yellow Mickey Mouse shirt, black pants, and Paw Patrol shoes.

Search efforts entered a third day and continued to expand, involving a large-scale coordinated response. On Thursday alone, 161 volunteers and 126 law enforcement officers from multiple agencies searched roughly 500 acres of land. More than 100 additional volunteers returned Friday as efforts continued.

Search operations included ground teams, thermal imaging drones, dive teams, and assistance from state and federal partners. Despite extensive efforts, authorities reported that no confirmed heat signatures or sightings were detected during the early stages of the search.

Walker County Emergency Management Agency Director Regina Myers said search areas were expanded into locations not previously covered. She also noted that volunteers were not permitted to search near the child’s home due to safety concerns.

Throughout the search, Sheriff Smith urged residents to check their surroundings and review any available surveillance equipment.

“I need everybody in Walker County to check your Ring cameras, deer cameras, tree stands, garages, and vehicles,” Smith said during a briefing. “With Johnathan’s small size, he could fit into tight spaces.”

Sheriff Smith had previously expressed hope that Johnathan and Buck were together, noting that the dog could have helped the child remain warm during several cold nights.

During the search, authorities confirmed that Johnathan’s father, Jameson Kyle Boley, was taken into custody on separate and unrelated charges. Investigators reported discovering explosive materials at his residence, prompting the suspension of search activity in that area for safety reasons.

Authorities later confirmed that Jameson Boley faces active warrants for unlawful manufacturing of a destructive device and two counts of chemical endangerment of a child. According to criminal complaints, the charges allege that children were exposed to methamphetamine on December 31, 2025, with one count specifically related to Johnathan Everett Boley.

Law enforcement officials emphasized that these charges are separate from the investigation into Johnathan’s death and do not indicate any conclusions regarding what occurred. Authorities reiterated that criminal charges are allegations and not convictions.

The death of Johnathan Boley has left a family grieving and a community deeply affected. Officials acknowledged the overwhelming public response and the tireless efforts of volunteers and first responders who worked around the clock in hopes of bringing the child home safely.

Out of respect for the family, authorities urged the public to avoid speculation and the spread of unverified information as the investigation continues. State and federal agencies remain involved as officials work to determine the full circumstances surrounding Johnathan’s death.

Anyone with information, tips, or surveillance footage from along Highway 195 or nearby areas is urged to contact the Walker County Sheriff’s Office at 205-384-7218 or call 911.

As the community mourns, many have shared messages of remembrance for a young life lost far too soon. Johnathan “John John” Everett Boley is being remembered with love by those who searched, prayed, and hoped for his safe return.