True Crime Garage: Gretchen Fleming – Part 1 (Episode 807) Summary

Release Date: December 18, 2024

Introduction

In Episode 807 of True Crime Garage, hosts Nick and the Captain delve into the mysterious disappearance of Gretchen Fleming from Parkersburg, West Virginia. This detailed exploration unpacks the timeline of events, the investigation's progression, and the emergence of a person of interest, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of the case.

Background on Gretchen Fleming

Gretchen Eve Fleming was born on December 24, 1994, in Warrenton, Virginia. Raised in Parkersburg, West Virginia, she pursued higher education at Marshall College and William Peace University, studying political science. Post-college, Gretchen resided in Raleigh, North Carolina, before returning to West Virginia in December 2022 following a year-long relationship breakup and the illness of her biological mother.

Notable Quote:

"Gretchen was a musician, a writer, someone who made a statement with her clothing and hair, who didn't look like everyone else."
— Nick (05:00)

Timeline of Gretchen's Disappearance

• December 3, 2022 (Saturday): Gretchen was last seen leaving her workplace at H&M in Parkersburg around 1:15 PM. She informed her grandmother she would be out with friends after work, a common occurrence.

• Post-Work Night Out: Gretchen frequented local bars, including the Front Row Sports Bar and Grill. That night, she was accompanied by a man named John. Around 11 PM, they left the bar together for another establishment, the My Way Lounge, known for karaoke.

• December 4, 2022 (Sunday): John reported finding Gretchen's purse at the Front Row bar. The purse contained her phone, ID, wallet, and other personal items. Gretchen had not responded to any communications since December 3.

Notable Quote:

"She's the last person to see her, or the last person we think was seen with her in public was John."
— Captain (16:23)

Investigation Details

Upon Gretchen not returning home for over a week, her grandparents reported her missing. The Parkersburg Police Department promptly initiated an investigation, leveraging social media to disseminate information. Surveillance footage from the Front Row bar indicated that Gretchen left with a man identified as John.

Notable Quote:

"Detective Zimmerman actually appeared on the Disappeared TV show talking about the case. He said that the video footage they obtained showed the man and Gretchen leaving through the front door with her following behind him at approximately 03:10 hours on December 4th."
— Nick (46:19)

Emergence of a Person of Interest: Preston Pierce

As the investigation unfolded, police identified Preston Pierce as a person of interest. Surveillance footage traced Pierce's vehicle, a black Nissan Rogue adorned with Darth Vader stickers, moving through Parkersburg between early morning on December 4th and noon on December 5th. Search warrants were executed at Pierce's residence, vehicle, and a storage unit, yielding undisclosed items sent for forensic analysis.

Notable Quote:

"Detective Zimmerman, much later, flat out said that he believes foul play has occurred and that Pierce was the last person to see Gretchen."
— Nick (45:52)

Police Actions and Search Warrants

On December 14th, police obtained additional surveillance footage linking Pierce's vehicle to areas near Gretchen's last known movements. Subsequent search warrants executed on December 15th led to the impoundment of Pierce's car and the collection of evidence from his properties. Despite these efforts, no conclusive evidence has yet been made public.

Notable Quote:

"We have video footage that captured headlights heading down the alley towards 6th Street. We believe that to be the person of interest's vehicle."
— Nick (40:32)

Community Response and Ongoing Efforts

Gretchen's family mobilized the community through vigils and prayer meetings, garnering significant public support. Parkersburg Police Chief Matthew Board emphasized the department's dedication to the case, urging the community to assist by reviewing personal surveillance footage that might capture Pierce's vehicle.

Notable Quote:

"I just want to reassure the community that the Parkersburg police department is dedicated to helping Gretchen and Gretchen's family."
— Chief Board (56:00)

Current Status and Future Developments

As of the episode's recording, police continue to analyze collected evidence and pursue leads related to Preston Pierce. The investigation remains active, with authorities awaiting forensic results that may shed light on Gretchen's disappearance. The community remains vigilant, and the case underscores the challenges law enforcement faces in missing persons investigations.

Notable Quote:

"All leads, tips, information, every one of them is getting vetted. The agency was also reaching out to other law enforcement agencies throughout the state."
— Nick (58:00)

Conclusion

Episode 807 of True Crime Garage presents a thorough examination of Gretchen Fleming's disappearance, highlighting the complexities of missing persons cases and the intricate efforts of law enforcement. The hosts skillfully navigate the timeline, evidence, and ongoing investigation, providing listeners with an engaging and informative narrative.

Remember: If you or someone you know is missing, contact your local authorities immediately. Early reporting can be crucial in resolving such cases.