SEN. BRANDON SMITH ON DEVELOPMENTS SURROUNDING THE JAYDEN SPICER CASE
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 12, 2025) — Sen. Brandon Smith, R-Hazard, released the following statement regarding the discovery of 10-year-old Jayden Spicer of Breathitt County.
“Tonight, our hearts are heavy as we grieve the loss of young Jayden Spicer. My deepest prayers are with all who loved Jayden and with our communities that came together in hope, now united in sorrow. While few details are available regarding this innocent child’s death, we will be committed to ensuring he receives justice if the facts demand it. My prayers and support are with KSP Post 13 and those who will oversee this investigation and prosecution.
“Over the past week, I witnessed firsthand the outpouring of compassion from volunteers, neighbors, and total strangers who stepped forward to search for Jayden. That spirit of service and love will echo long after today and into heaven, serving as a powerful reminder of what it means to stand together in times of trial.
“As Jayden now rests in the arms of our Lord and Savior, may we hold close the example of unity and care shown by so many. Let us continue to lift one another in prayer, and may the peace of God’s love bring comfort to every heart that is broken.”
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Find a news conference including Trooper Gayheart of Kentucky State Police Post 13 by clicking here.
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Sen. Brandon Smith resides in Hazard, Ky. He represents the state's largest and most rural state Senate district, which includes Breathitt, Estill, Lee, Leslie, Magoffin, Morgan, Perry, Powell, and Wolfe Counties.