Ricky Allan Griffis, a 46-year-old man from Wayne County, Kentucky, was last seen in the summer of 2022. His disappearance has left his family searching for answers and law enforcement with a case that has grown cold. The last confirmed sighting of Griffis was in the Burnside area of Pulaski County. A few days following his disappearance, his car, wallet, and cell phone were discovered near the Coopersville strip mine in Wayne County, adding a layer of complexity to the investigation. This discovery prompted extensive searches of the area by law enforcement and volunteer groups, including the Wayne County Rescue Squad, but these efforts have not yet led to his whereabouts.
The circumstances surrounding Ricky Griffis's disappearance are unsettling. Authorities and his family suspect that a crime may have been committed. This belief is strengthened by the fact that he uncharacteristically did not show up for work.
Adding to the mystery is a text message reportedly sent from his phone on July 5, 2022, stating he was stuck in the woods. However, his mother has stated that the family never received this message, with their last communication being a text she sent him on the Fourth of July. His mother recalled their final conversation, in which she asked if he would be coming home that night, and he replied that he would not.
Despite the passage of time, the investigation into Ricky Griffis's disappearance remains active, though officials have stated there are no new leads. His family continues to hold out hope and has been proactive in keeping his story in the public eye, even creating a Facebook page titled 'Justice for Ricky Griffis'. In June 2023, the Cajun Coast Search and Rescue Team, a volunteer group, traveled to Kentucky to assist in the search efforts, covering significant ground in the southern part of the state. The case has also garnered national attention, with hopes that increased publicity will generate new tips. His mother has openly spoken about his past struggles with alcohol and painkillers following a serious accident, but also noted his successful recovery through rehabilitation prior to his disappearance. The family and law enforcement continue to urge anyone with information to come forward, as a reward is available for information that could help resolve this case.Last Seen: Jul 4, 2022
