PINEHURST, Idaho — A somber silence has fallen over the small Idaho town of Pinehurst as the community mourns the loss of a man many considered a light in their life.
The Shoshone County Sheriff confirmed Wednesday the body of Gene Jacobs, the lead pastor at Real Life Ministries Silver Valley, was found in a remote area near Pinehurst after an all day extensive search. Now, members of the community are working to process the immense loss.
The search for Jacobs began on Tuesday, when he was reported missing after not showing up to his weekly elders meeting set for that day. The Shoshone County Sheriff's Office (SCSO) organized an extensive search with help from neighboring law enforcement agencies and volunteers.
Search crews found Ring camera footage showing Jacobs heading up a hill toward trails he often hiked. Search and rescue efforts ended Tuesday night when Jacobs' body was found in the wooded area near his home.
According to police, initial information suggests Jacobs died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
News of Jacobs' death quickly spread throughout the Silver Valley community, shattering the hearts of dozens of people who considered him a friend, mentor and more.
"He was my mentor," said Derek Jefferies, a member of Real Life Ministries. "He was one of those guys that when he gave you advice, you just kind of took it."
Jefferies said he owes Pastor Jacobs everything for saving his marriage.
"We're real good. Better than we've ever been," he explained. "If it wasn't for him, that wouldn't be the case."
Real Life Ministries Silver Valley shared a statement via Facebook after learning of Jacobs' death. The statement reads in part:
This is a huge loss to our congregation. We are doing our best to be the church that Jesus has called us to be. That means ministering to the needs of our congregation and the community.
The church's usual Thursday night service will focus on offering the congregation an opportunity to pray, grieve and work from 6-8 p.m. on April 25. The church will also offer grief counseling services for anyone suffering from the loss.
SCSO also issued a statement on Facebook about Jacobs, stating in part:
Our community has gone through so much in the last two years, and I wish I had something profound to say to bring some peace to everyone. But the truth is, yesterday was one of the worst days of my career…seeing and experiencing all that pain. It’s a day I will never forget. Our community is hurting right now, and we need to be there for each other however we can. The strong need to be ready to listen, and those who are hurting should seek out someone they trust and talk about it. We must come together and help each other get through this devastating time.
Police said the investigation into Jacobs' death is ongoing. Officers said there is no apparent foul play, but an autopsy has been scheduled and the investigation remains ongoing.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, help is available to you. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones.
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