Authorities in Alabama are intensively searching for a five-year-old boy who went missing on Wednesday, leaving the community on edge.

The young boy, Johnathan Boley, was last spotted in Walker County. According to Sheriff Nick Smith, Boley’s six-year-old brother reported seeing him crawl under a fence and disappear into the nearby woods. During their investigation, law enforcement discovered explosive materials at the home of Boley’s father, leading to his arrest, as reported by WIAT.

The FBI has joined the efforts at the scene after finding remnants of previously detonated explosives in the wooded area.

“Neighbors have noted frequent explosions in the vicinity,” Sheriff Smith explained to WBRC. “Before our arrival, a loud explosion was reported around four that morning, indicating the situation might be more complex than anticipated.”

According to 1819 News, helicopters equipped with thermal imaging technology have scanned the area for Johnathan Boley, yet there are still no traces of him. Despite the threat posed by potential explosives, ground search operations resumed on Thursday.

Johnathan’s father, Jameson Boley, age 40, faces charges for the unlawful production of a destructive device or weapon, as reported by AL.com. Sheriff Smith disclosed that the boys usually reside with their mother in Florida, but were spending five days with their father. They were scheduled to return to their mother on Thursday.

This story is developing. 

[Feature Photo: Alabama Law Enforcement Agency]