By Staff Reporter | Somerset-Pulaski Advocate
Photograph courtesy of Kentucky State Police
Breathitt County, Kentucky (SPA). — The search for 10-year-old Jayden Spicer came to a devastating end Tuesday when Kentucky State Police confirmed his body was found near Canoe Road, almost a week after his family last reported seeing him.
Authorities say the discovery brings a tragic close to days of desperate searching, community prayers, and growing concern. Jayden’s disappearance had gripped the rural county, where neighbors, volunteers, and law enforcement worked side by side, holding onto hope that he would be found safe.
In a deeply troubling development, Jayden’s mother, Felicia A. Gross, 33, of Jackson, Kentucky, was taken into custody and transported to the Kentucky River Regional Jail. She is charged with second-degree manslaughter, abuse of a corpse, tampering with physical evidence, and falsely reporting an incident.
The case, now led by Detective Nathan Roark, has officially shifted from a missing person search to an active criminal investigation. Kentucky State Police stressed that while certain details cannot be shared at this stage, protecting the integrity of the investigation is critical to ensuring justice for Jayden.
Community members expressed shock and grief over the news, describing Jayden as a bright, kind-hearted boy whose absence will be profoundly felt. Counselors and support services are being made available to those affected, including Jayden’s classmates and friends.
Trooper Matt Gayheart expressed deep gratitude to those who dedicated themselves to finding Jayden. “I would like to thank the many different organizations that assisted in the search efforts for Jayden, all of the volunteers who spent countless hours and days trying to locate him, and every person who sent tips or even shared a social media post,” Gayheart said. “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.”
As Breathitt County mourns, vigils and memorials are being planned to honor Jayden’s memory. The case serves as a sobering reminder of the need for vigilance, compassion, and unity in protecting the most vulnerable.
Jayden Spicer’s short life will not be forgotten — and the pursuit of justice for him is now the community’s shared mission.
*******
(C) 2025 Somerset-Pulaski Advocate. All Rights Reserved
"UPDATED"
UPDATE: This article has been updated with formal funeral arrangements. "In 25 years in public service, you will witness a lot of senseless death, and examples of how man can be so humane to his fellow man."- Michael Grigsby, Editor. This incident serves as a grim reminder of how brutal and vicious the world and the people in it are toward each other for no justifiable reason. The second loss begins, which the family will experience as the situation progresses throughout the court. We, the staff of Somerset-Pulaski County Advocate, express our deepest sympathy and condolences to the family in this very trying time. You can read his full obituary here: https://www.thebreathittfuneralhome.com/obituary/jayden-spicer
*******
Add comment
Comments