Parkersburg, West Virginia — A years-long missing persons investigation has led to murder and kidnapping charges against a man accused in the disappearance of a young West Virginia woman whose remains were ultimately discovered in a wooded area nearly three years later.
Authorities say the case involving 27-year-old Gretchen Fleming has finally reached a major turning point after the suspect was extradited back to West Virginia to face multiple felony charges.
Woman Vanished After Leaving Local Bar
According to investigators, Fleming was last seen during the early morning hours of December 4, 2022, at what police described as “a local establishment.”
Authorities say she left the location with 58-year-old Preston Pierce shortly before disappearing.
Investigators noted that Fleming left behind personal belongings, including her purse and wallet, raising immediate concerns once friends and family realized they could not reach her.
Police said she was officially reported missing after “failing to contact family or friends for just over a week.”
The disappearance sparked a lengthy investigation that continued for years as detectives searched for answers.
Remains Discovered Nearly Three Years Later
The case took a significant turn in September 2025 when human remains were discovered in Wirt County, West Virginia.
According to authorities, extensive forensic testing was later conducted to determine the identity of the remains. Investigators ultimately confirmed that the remains belonged to Fleming.
Police said the discovery provided crucial evidence that helped advance the investigation and led to new developments in the case.
Authorities later determined that Fleming had left the bar with Pierce shortly before she vanished.
Suspect Arrested and Extradited to West Virginia
According to Parkersburg Police Chief Matthew E. Board, Pierce allegedly fled West Virginia before eventually being located in Buncombe County, North Carolina.
Authorities arrested him on May 15, and officials say he later waived his right to an extradition hearing. As a result, Pierce was transferred back to West Virginia on June 4 to face prosecution.
A Wood County grand jury indicted him on multiple charges, including:
- First-degree murder
- Felony murder
- Kidnapping
- Disposal of a deceased human body
Court records indicate Pierce is currently being held without bail while awaiting future court proceedings.
Investigation Reveals Additional Details
Court records obtained by media outlets indicate that Pierce also allegedly used the name Darrell Lott.
According to local reports, his birth name is reportedly Darrell Lott and he previously worked as a law enforcement officer.
Authorities have not publicly released additional details regarding the evidence presented to the grand jury or the exact circumstances surrounding Fleming’s death.
The charges remain allegations, and Pierce is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Family Praised for Strength During Investigation
As the case moved forward, police acknowledged the support and patience shown by Fleming’s family throughout the years-long investigation.
“The Parkersburg Police Department extends its deepest gratitude to the Fleming family for their faith, patience, and continued support throughout this process,” the statement from police read.
Authorities added:
“Their strength, grace, and resilience in the face of unimaginable loss have been truly remarkable.”
The case remains active as prosecutors prepare for upcoming court proceedings.
What are your thoughts on this case and the years-long investigation that led to these charges? Share your opinion respectfully in the comments below.
