HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Months of heartache and uncertainty have come to a tragic end after the Huntsville Police Department (HPD) confirmed that 25-year-old Lazarus Howard III, who had been missing since July, was found dead on Wednesday near Highway 20. What began as a missing person investigation has now turned into a murder case, leaving the community shaken and a family searching for answers.
Authorities said preliminary evidence suggests foul play, and while an autopsy will determine the official cause of death, investigators believe Lazarus was murdered. The grim discovery followed months of determined investigative work and a vital anonymous tip that finally led detectives to the truth about what happened to the young man.
According to HPD, Lazarus was reported missing on July 19, after his family lost contact with him nine days earlier, on July 10. His mother told police that it was unlike her son to go so long without communication, prompting concern that quickly grew into fear. Despite widespread searches and community appeals for help, weeks turned into months with no sign of Lazarus — until new information surfaced.
Detectives said an anonymous tip pointed them toward 19-year-old Kylan James Haley, who was identified as a person of interest in the case. Investigators traveled to Montgomery to question Haley, and during the course of their investigation, his statements and other evidence led officers to Howard’s remains in a secluded area near Highway 20. The discovery brought heartbreaking confirmation of what many had feared.
Based on the evidence gathered, HPD obtained a murder warrant for Haley, who is now awaiting extradition to Madison County, where he will face prosecution. Police have not yet released details on a possible motive or the nature of the relationship between Howard and Haley, but officials emphasized that the investigation remains active and that more information will be shared as it becomes available.
The Huntsville Police Department thanked the public for their assistance and encouraged anyone with additional information to come forward. As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of Lazarus Howard III — a young man whose life was cut short, but whose memory will not be forgotten.
