Tragic Discovery Ends Search for Missing 10-Year-Old Jaden Spicer
JACKSON, Ky – August 12, 2025 – A heartbreaking chapter unfolded in Breathitt County today as Kentucky State Police confirmed the discovery of the remains of 10-year-old Jaden Spicer, ending a search that had gripped the community for days.
Earlier in the day, detectives from Kentucky State Police, Post 13 in Hazard, received new information that shifted the focus of their investigation. Acting on these leads, investigators identified a heavily wooded area along Canoe Road in the Jackson community as a potential search site.
Detectives responded promptly and began a methodical search of the terrain. At approximately 3:00 p.m., their worst fears were realized — Jaden’s remains were located buried at the scene. The Breathitt County Coroner’s Office arrived and pronounced the child deceased. His remains are being transported to the Medical Examiner’s Office in Frankfort, where an autopsy will be conducted to determine the cause of death.
Investigation Leads to Arrest
Following the discovery, Jaden’s mother, 33-year-old Felicia A. Gross of Jackson, was taken into custody. She has been charged with Manslaughter in the Second Degree, Abuse of a Corpse, Tampering with Physical Evidence, and Falsely Reporting an Incident. Gross was transported to the Kentucky River Regional Jail, and the investigation — now a criminal case — is being led by Detective Nathan Roark.
Authorities stress that, due to the active and ongoing nature of the investigation, certain details cannot be disclosed at this time. Protecting the integrity of the case remains the top priority as detectives work to secure justice for Jaden.
From Search to Tragedy
This development marks a somber transition from a missing person search to a criminal investigation. The case began when Jaden was reported missing, prompting extensive search efforts involving multiple law enforcement agencies, community organizations, and countless volunteers. Search teams scoured the area on foot, by vehicle, and through coordinated aerial and ground sweeps, clinging to the hope that the young boy would be found safe.
That hope ended today.
In a statement, a Kentucky State Police spokesperson expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from the community:
“I would like to take a moment to thank the many different organizations that assisted in the search efforts for Jaden. All of the volunteers that spent numerous hours and days trying to locate him. Thank you to every person that sent tips or even shared a social media post. Thank you for the many prayers that were prayed, and we ask that you continue to pray for a community that grieves during this tragic loss.”
A Community in Mourning
The news of Jaden’s death has devastated the Jackson community, where neighbors, teachers, friends, and strangers alike had united in the search. For many, this loss is deeply personal — a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of standing together in times of tragedy.
In the coming days, law enforcement officials will continue their investigation, gathering evidence and working with prosecutors to ensure that justice is served. Meanwhile, the community is left to grieve the life of a child whose future was tragically cut short.
As the legal process unfolds, one truth remains: Jaden will be remembered, and the search for justice in his name will not waver.
