Boyfriend of woman missing for 23 years remains primary suspect, deputies say

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MARYSVLLE, Ohio (WCMH) – Columbus police and Central Ohio Crime Stoppers continue to ask for the public’s assistance in locating a woman who has not been seen since 2001.

Patricia (Patti) Adkins has been missing for 23 years since she left Honda of America Manufacturing plant in Marysville on June 29, 2001. Adkins was last seen leaving at the end of the second shift.

According to NBC News, Adkins was scheduled to take a trip to Canada with her boyfriend. But when she did not return to pick up her daughter, Adkins' sister reported her missing on July 8.

Crime Stoppers say no one, including Adkins’ daughter and family members, has heard from her, with financial and personal records showing no activity since her disappearance.

NBC News said police have interviewed Adkins’ boyfriend, and he has denied having anything to do with her disappearance. The Union County Sheriff’s Office said the boyfriend remains the primary suspect, though little evidence has been connected to him.

Foul play is suspected, with courts declaring Adkins legally dead at 29 years of age, per Crime Stoppers. She would be 52 years old now, and the Union County Sheriff's Office continues to investigate any and all leads.

In 2022 Crime Stoppers issued a $25,000 reward to anyone with information leading to the discovery of Adkins. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 614-461-TIPS (8477) or visit www.stopcrime.org and submit your tip.