What began as a frantic search for 6-year-old Jayden Spicer ended in heartbreak and an arrest. Nearly a week after he was reported missing from his Jackson, Kentucky, home, troopers discovered his body on August 12, 2025, buried in a shallow grave off Canoe Road.

Jayden’s mother, 33-year-old Felicia Gross, was arrested and charged with manslaughter, abuse of a corpse, tampering with evidence, and filing a false report. Court documents allege she gave her son sleeping medication, believed he had died, and hid his body. Additional charges for witness tampering followed after she allegedly coached her other children.

The discovery devastated a community that had raised thousands of dollars in hopes of bringing Jayden home. Father Jim Sichko, who pledged funds for the search, later offered to cover funeral costs. Vigils and prayers now honor the boy, whose grandmother had cared for him until her recent passing.

Gross, who has a history of drug and firearm charges, pleaded not guilty at her first court appearance. As the investigation continues, Kentucky State Police thanked law enforcement, volunteers, and residents for their efforts, urging continued prayers for a grieving community.