HPD locates missing man, Lazarus Howard, deceased

Published on November 6, 2025

The search for 25-year-old Lazarus Howard III ended tragically on Wednesday, Nov. 5, when the Huntsville Police Department (HPD) located him deceased in an area near the 29000 block of Highway 20.

Preliminary evidence supports that Howard was the victim of a homicide; an autopsy will need to be completed to determine the cause of death.

Howard was reported missing on July 19 after last speaking with his mother on July 10. Since that time, HPD investigators have actively pursued the case, conducted multiple searches of his apartment, and obtained warrants and subpoenas to gather information on his whereabouts.

An anonymous tip helped investigators identify Kylan James Haley, 19, of Montgomery, as a person of interest.

On Nov. 5, HPD investigators traveled to Montgomery to interview Haley, which led to a coordinated search for Howard on Highway 20 and the issuance of a murder warrant for Haley.

The extradition process is underway to return Haley to Madison County.

HPD extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Lazarus Howard III.