Texas EquuSearch Joins Renewed Effort to Locate Kirbyville Man Joshua Larkin

KIRBYVILLE, TX — The search for Joshua Larkin, a Kirbyville man who has been missing since November 17, 2022, gained new momentum this week as Texas EquuSearch officially joined the ongoing recovery efforts. The nonprofit search-and-recovery organization, led by founder Tim Miller, is now actively working alongside law enforcement in the region to bring closure to a case that has recently shifted from a missing person investigation to a murder investigation.

Larkin, 38 at the time of his disappearance, was last seen leaving his residence to go hunting near the Exotic Cat Refuge off Private Road 7025 in Kirbyville. Nearly two years later, in November 2025, four suspects were arrested in connection with the case, with two now charged with murder.

Two Men Charged With Murder

Authorities have confirmed that Justin Taylor James, 36, and Johnathan “Cody” Bierhalter, 37, have been formally charged with murder in connection to Larkin’s disappearance and presumed death.

Additionally, James “Alex” Jones and Rodney Allen Blankenship have been charged with tampering with or fabricating physical evidence, according to probable cause affidavits filed in Newton County.

While Larkin’s body has not yet been recovered, officials say the case's reclassification and supporting evidence justify the elevated charges.

Texas EquuSearch Now Actively Involved

As part of the renewed effort to locate Larkin and recover his remains, Texas EquuSearch deployed personnel to assist with ground searches and recovery coordination. The group is nationally known for its expertise in locating missing persons, particularly in challenging terrain.

Their involvement follows a visit to Jasper County by EquuSearch founder Tim Miller on Thursday, January 9, 2026, where he met with Sheriff Chuck Havard to discuss collaborative strategies.

“Every single time I have reached out to his organization, they generally have boots on the ground in Jasper County within three hours,” said Sheriff Havard. “Tim and I have been friends for a very long time, and he always provides significant assistance to us.”

Havard praised the long-standing relationship between his office and EquuSearch, stating, “Our partnership is stronger than ever, and we are committed to working with Tim and his staff to bring every resource we can to the citizens of Jasper County. Our goal is always to bring closure to families and justice to violators.”

Sheriff Havard also expressed personal appreciation: “I owe Tim and his staff a great deal of gratitude for always stepping up and coming to the aid of the citizens of Jasper County and this Sheriff’s Office in a time of need. Thank you, Tim.”

Ongoing Investigation

At this time, it remains unclear what Joshua Larkin was wearing on the day he vanished. Authorities urge the public to come forward with any information—no matter how minor—that could aid in recovering Larkin and supporting the ongoing criminal investigation.

Larkin is described as a white male, 6’4”, weighing 230 lbs., with brown hair and blue eyes.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Jasper County Sheriff's Office at (409) 384-2555 or Texas EquuSearch at (281) 309-9500.