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Gary Burkes Missing Person Case

Last seen in South Charleston, West Virginia on Feb 7, 1994

Victim Details

Nov 8, 2017

Jan 12, 2024

Gary

Burkes

62

30

67 inches

69 inches

180 lbs

185 lbs

Black / African American

Male

Feb 7, 1994

South Charleston

West Virginia

Kanawha County

No

34986

South Charleston Police Department

South Charleston

West Virginia

Kanawha County

25303

235 4th Avenue, West Virginia

3047446903

Local

Law Enforcement

https://cityofsouthcharleston.com/departments/police-department/

9406589

Aug 5, 1994

South Charleston Police Department

Brown

Brown

Brown

Oct 4, 2026


Area Last Seen:

Case Description

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Summary based on the NamUs case record (MP40654) and 2 other sources
Gary Burkes, a 30-year-old man from South Charleston, West Virginia, was reported missing on February 7, 1994. Known for his outgoing personality and strong community ties, Gary's sudden disappearance raised immediate alarms among his family and friends. He was last seen in the area where he lived, and the circumstances of his vanishing left loved ones deeply concerned and searching for answers.

In the wake of his disappearance, family members and friends quickly organized search efforts, reaching out to the community for assistance. They distributed flyers and engaged local volunteers to help search for any clues regarding Gary’s whereabouts. Local law enforcement also initiated an investigation, conducting interviews with those who knew him and exploring possible leads. Despite these extensive efforts, initial searches yielded little information, heightening the anxiety of those searching for him.

As days turned into weeks without credible sightings or substantial evidence, the investigation faced numerous challenges. The lack of clear information made it difficult for investigators to determine what had happened to Gary, leaving his family increasingly desperate for answers. They continued to advocate for his case, utilizing community events and media outreach to keep his story alive in the public consciousness.

Over the years, Gary Burkes’s case has remained open, attracting attention from local media and missing persons organizations. His family has worked tirelessly to maintain awareness of his disappearance, holding vigils and community gatherings to encourage anyone with information to come forward. Despite the passage of time and the obstacles faced in the investigation, they remain hopeful that new leads will eventually emerge, bringing them closer to understanding the truth behind Gary’s mysterious disappearance.
Last Seen: Feb 7, 1994

Links to Additional Sources (2)

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  • Missing Person / NamUs
  • WV - Gary Lewis Burkes, 30, South Charleston, 7 Feb 1994

    • Possible Unidentified Matches (1)

    Unidentified remains cases whose details are consistent with this person, ranked by how closely they compare. Fields that are unknown in either case are left out of the score.

    75%Possible
    John Doe — Detroit, Michigan - unidentified case UP56104
    John Doe — Detroit, Michigan
    UP56104 • Found Nov 30, 1996
    View case
    Sex ✓Male
    Age 100%Est. 16–30 vs 30 when missing
    Race 100%Black
    Location 47%283 mi away
    TimingFound 3 years after last seen
    Height 100%5'7" vs 5'7"–5'9"
    Weight 100%171 lb vs 180–185 lb
    Hair 60%Black vs Brown
    Eyes 100%Brown vs Brown

    These comparisons are generated automatically from public NamUs case data and are not confirmed identifications. Only DNA, dental or fingerprint comparison by investigators can confirm an identity. If you believe two cases are connected, contact the agency handling the unidentified case.

    Unidentified photos are blurred because many are post-mortem. Tap a photo to reveal it.

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    Forum Posts (3)

    Hey everyone, I've been following Gary Burkes’ case from South Charleston, WV, and came across an... ...Read More
    05/26/2024
    Hi everyone, I just wanted to share some thoughts about a lesser-discussed aspect of Gary Burkes's... ...Read More
    08/03/2023
    Did anyone else notice the neighborhood dynamic shift after Gary Burkes disappeared? I grew up in... ...Read More
    03/24/2023

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