The search for missing UK citizen Alex Hodgson Doughty has ended tragically with the discovery of his remains in a wooded area in South Georgia. Doughty, 32, had been missing for over two years before his body was found earlier this month. The FBI Jacksonville Division reported that Doughty vanished while visiting North Florida in September 2022. His mother had raised concerns for his safety, leading to a prolonged search involving local, state, and international agencies.
As reported by FOX 5 Atlanta, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation medical examiner confirmed Doughty's identity, though no criminal charges have been filed in connection to his death. Investigators have not released details on the cause of death. Special Agent in Charge Kristin Rehler stated, "While we had hoped to bring Mr. Doughty’s family better news, we are thankful to be able to provide them with some closure."
Doughty was last seen in Florida at the Bay Street Bar and Grill in Jacksonville, according to a missing persons report. After his disappearance, his mother, Pamela Hodgson, created a Facebook page called Help Find Alex to seek public help in locating him. A reward of $5,000 was offered for information leading to his whereabouts.
To aid in the search, the FBI Jacksonville Division used phone-based technology to track Doughty’s movements. An official told First Coast News, "This isn't a traditional investigative technique, such as interviews. We used phone-based location information and geolocation information derived from electronics we surround ourselves with every day to retrace their footsteps and to narrow a search area," as reported by People. The investigation involved contributions from the FBI, State Attorney’s Office, Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, Thames Valley Police in the U.K., and the Kingsland Police Department.
