No Foul Play Suspected in Woman’s Death

UPSHUR COUNTY — Authorities have found the body of a woman reported missing and officials said there did not appear to be evidence of foul play. Gladewater police were called to the 600 block of Gay Avenue around 3:30 Thursday morning. Heather Marie Holcomb, 39, who had been staying at that address when the resident reported her missing. Holcomb had allegedly walked away from the house during the night and was brought back inside after being found.

Later in the morning, she was once again discovered missing and reported to the police. Holcomb is said to have suffered from mental health problems. Authorities immediately began to search the area for woman. After daylight, a larger search party was formed. She was eventually found dead in the 700 block of Gay Avenue, well off the road and into a heavily wooded area.

According to KETK, Chief Farrell Alexander said a combination of the elements and health problems could have contributed to the woman’s death, but until an autopsy is completed and returned there is no known cause of death. There were no signs of a struggle or life-threatening injuries, the police chief said.