The people's voice of reason
The people's voice of reason
Patrick Slade Boothe's body has been found. His death is being investigated as a homicide.
February 4, 2026 - JACKSONVILLE, Ala. - Jacksonville Police Chief Marcus Wood announced late Wednesday that Patrick Slade Boothe, who had been missing since January 23, was found dead earlier in the day. Boothe was last seen leaving the Parker Place Southwest area of Jacksonville before disappearing under circumstances that quickly raised concern among family and investigators.
According to Chief Wood, individuals believed to be involved in Boothe's death have been taken into custody, though authorities are withholding further details due to the ongoing investigation. Information about the suspects and potential charges will be released at a later time.
Law enforcement officials have been in contact with Boothe's family and have requested privacy for them as the investigation continues.
"Parties involved in his death are now in custody. Due to the nature of the ongoing investigation, the Jacksonville Police Department cannot release more information at this time. More details about their identity and charges will be released to the public when possible," the Jacksonville City Police said in a statement. "At this time we ask for prayers and privacy for the family of Mr. Boothe. Law enforcement has already been in contact with the family. All questions and media contact should be directed to the office of Chief Wood at the Jacksonville Police Department."
A Multi‑Agency Investigation
The search for Boothe and the subsequent death investigation mobilized an unusually large coalition of law‑enforcement agencies across multiple counties. Agencies assisting include:
Oxford Police Department
Oxford Aviation Unit
East Metro Area Crime Center
Calhoun/Cleburne Violent Crimes Task Force
Calhoun County Sheriff's Office
Talladega County Sheriff's Office
Talladega County Drug Task Force
Pell City Police Department
St. Clair County Sheriff's Office
Alabama Game & Fish Division
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency
FBI
Their involvement underscores the seriousness of the case and the coordinated effort required to locate Boothe and identify those responsible.
Community Impact and Ongoing Questions
Boothe's disappearance had drawn significant attention in Jacksonville and surrounding communities, with many following updates closely as the search intensified. News of his death has left residents shocked and grieving, while also looking for answers about what happened in the days after he was last seen.
Authorities have emphasized that the investigation remains active, and additional information will be released as soon as it is appropriate to do so.
A Developing Story
As investigators continue their work, the community is left mourning the loss of a neighbor and awaiting clarity on the circumstances surrounding Boothe's death. More details are expected in the coming days as law enforcement moves forward with interviews, evidence processing, and potential charges.
The Alabama Gazette would like to thank any of our readers who helped the authorities with information that helped lead to the discovery of Mr. Boothe's body. Any information that anyone might possibly have that might help authorities prosecute the person or persons that contributed to Boothe's untimely demise should be sent to the Calhoun Conty Sheriff's Department at (256) 236-6600 or sheriff@calcoso.org
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