> At a Glance
> – 4-year-old Johnathan Everett Boley found dead in an Alabama creek after his dog guided searchers to the spot
> – Preliminary autopsy shows no trauma; cause of death still under investigation
> – Father arrested on separate drug and explosives charges during the search
> – Why it matters: The tragedy highlights how quickly outings can turn deadly and how pets can aid in critical moments
A holiday visit to his father ended in heartbreak when Johnathan Everett Boley vanished in rural Walker County, Alabama, and was found lifeless three days later-his loyal dog, Buck, staying by his side until volunteers arrived.
The Disappearance and Search
Johnathan was last seen around 11:30 a.m. on Dec. 31 while visiting his dad on Highway 195 in Jasper. Deputies were alerted an hour later and launched an air-and-ground search involving multiple agencies and hundreds of volunteers.
Searchers scoured woods and waterways. On Jan. 2 at 12:55 p.m., a volunteer team spotted Buck; the dog then led them to the boy’s body in a nearby creek.
Sheriff Nick Smith described the moment:
> “They saw the dog first, and the dog kind of led them back to where John-John was.”
One volunteer suffered a panic attack and required medical aid after the discovery.
Autopsy and Ongoing Investigation
The preliminary autopsy revealed:
- No signs of trauma or assault
- Final cause of death pending lab results
- Sheriff Smith emphasized “anything official will be pending further testing”
The sheriff’s office will compile all findings for the district attorney once toxicology and other exams are complete.
Separate Charges Against Father
During a search of the father’s home, investigators allegedly found:
- Methamphetamines
- Suspected explosive devices
Jameson Kyle Boley was arrested Dec. 31 and charged with:
- Unlawful manufacture of a destructive device (class B felony)
- Two counts of chemical endangerment of a child (class C felonies)
Sheriff Smith stressed:
> “These charges are totally separate from missing John-John.”
Jameson remains in custody; it is unclear if he has an attorney.
Key Takeaways
- Johnathan was on his father’s annual five-day visitation when he disappeared
- Hundreds of volunteers and multiple agencies joined the search
- Dog Buck never left the boy’s side during the three-day ordeal
- Father faces drug and explosives charges unrelated to the death investigation
- Final autopsy results could take weeks
Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the Walker County Sheriff’s Office as they await definitive answers on how the 4-year-old’s life ended.
