Suspect charged with murder nearly 1 year after Maine man reported missing

WINDHAM, Maine (WGME) — A Maine man has been charged with the murder of Alex Jackson, who had been missing for almost a year.

Authorities said they began investigating Jackson’s disappearance in May 2023.

Jackson was last seen on the afternoon of May 12, 2023 in Leeds, according to police.

His mother, Patricia Jackson, told WGME in 2023 that he went to go to a friend’s house in the Leeds area.

That same day, his girlfriend, Meghan Bougie, said he texted her that he was going to Vermont.

Police said Jackson's phone powered down at around 4:30 p.m. on May 12.

Police said his dog, Hazel, was found in North Yarmouth three days later wearing a different collar than she was last known to have on.

On Friday, Maine State Police obtained an arrest warrant for 30-year-old Joseph Chute, of Leeds.

Chute was arrested and charged with murder. He is being held without bail at the Androscoggin County Jail.

Police said Jackson’s body has still not been found.