Autopsy Offers New Details in Death of 4-Year-Old Walker County Boy Found with Loyal Dog by His Side

4-year-old Johnathan “John John” Everett Boley(Walker County Sheriff's Office/ALEA)

T.L. Sullivan | The Weekly Ledger News | Area News

JASPER, Ala. — Newly released autopsy findings have provided additional insight into the death of 4-year-old Johnathan Everett Boley, who was discovered after a three-day search in the Thach community of Walker County. The case has drawn statewide attention after the child was found with his dog beside him.

4-year-old Johnathan “John John” Everett Boley and his dog Buck. (Walker County Sheriff's Office/ALEA)

According to information released by authorities, the preliminary autopsy revealed no signs of trauma or assault-type injuries. Officials emphasize that the final autopsy results remain pending.

Johnathan was reported missing on New Year’s Eve while visiting his father. After an extensive search effort involving law enforcement and community members, he was located on Friday afternoon approximately two miles from his father’s home. Authorities said he was found partially in a body of water, and his dog, Buck, was discovered alive with him.

Investigators stated that volunteers ultimately located the child, underscoring the significant role of community involvement during the search.

During the investigation into the child’s disappearance, law enforcement searched the residence of Johnathan’s father, Jameson (James) Boley, 40, of Jasper. Authorities report that charges were filed following that search, including unlawful manufacturing of a destructive device, and methamphetamine was also allegedly located at the residence. Boley is being housed in the Blount County Jail.

James Boley, 40, of Jasper, is being held in the Blount County while facing charges in Walker County.(Blount County Jail)

Walker County Sheriff Nick Smith said the decision to house Boley in a neighboring county was made to maintain separation and security. Officials reiterated that the child’s final autopsy findings have not yet been completed.

The investigation remains ongoing.

The Weekly Ledger News will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as additional information becomes available.

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