David Adkins

According to West Virginia State Police, David Lee Adkins of Bloomingrose, was reported missing by his wife. She told investigators that her husband and at least three other men were stealing copper from inside the sealed Upper Big Branch Mine. One of the men, was arrested on Wednesday. A second man, was arrested on Friday. Both men are charged with breaking and entering at the mine. Bennett reportedly told investigators that he had been with Adkins inside the mine around 2:30 a.m. Tuesday, but that the two separated. In an interview with WVVA on Friday, Adkins' mother, said she believes there is more to the story. She said her son and his wife had a troubled history, parting ways just days before her son disappeared. "He disappeared. He and his wife got into an argument. She wanted him to go out in the mountains and steal copper. He said he didn't want to and he didn't like it and he left, said Adkins. "My heart feels like it's just breaking in two. I've never experienced anything like this except when my grandson died last year. That was the worst part. But this, this is killing me...not knowing if he's alive or anything."

CaseTrace is not an emergency reporting system. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911. For official tips or urgent case information, contact the investigating agency directly.

CaseTrace is for awareness and responsible information sharing only. Do not approach, confront, follow, accuse, or investigate anyone based on case information. Submit credible information through the proper tip channel or contact the investigating agency directly. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.

Submitted tips are not displayed publicly. They are intended for authorized review only.

Helpful tips include where, when, what you saw, vehicle details, direction of travel, photos, or other specific facts. Avoid guesses, rumors, or accusations.

Do not submit false, harassing, threatening, or intentionally misleading information.