(WKYT) – Four years after a southern Kentucky man disappeared, investigators say they believe they are close to possibly solving the case and bringing a family answer.
Ricky Griffis left his home in Wayne County in July 2022 and never returned. His mother, Alice Mabe, says she has not given up hope that answers are coming.
‘Just been a nightmare’
Mabe said the Fourth of July now serves as an annual reminder that her son has not been found.
“Never dreamed, I thought he would come home. Just been a nightmare. 4 years,” Mabe said.
She said Griffis had turned his life around before he disappeared but was still spending some time with people she described as the wrong crowd.
“None of the ones he was with was his friend. Acquaintances. People he knew. Took advantage of him,” Mabe said.
Two possible locations identified
The deputy working the case described the investigation as a rollercoaster of leads followed by dead ends. He said investigators have now pinpointed two possible locations where Griffis may be found.
The deputy also said that while arrests can be made without the discovery of a body, there is currently not enough evidence to move forward with charges.
Mabe said she believes people were jealous of her son’s recovery from drug use.
“God pulled him out of it. Like I said before the only way we can do anything is with God. He pulled him out of it, shake him up. Made him a better man,” Mabe said.
She said Griffis made changes in his life and that others may have taken advantage of his success — a situation she believes may have ultimately cost him his life.
Multiple search crews from out of state, including teams from Georgia and Texas, have also been part of the search efforts.