A tragic and violent case has shaken the small community of Ivydale, West Virginia, as authorities have arrested 58-year-old Michael Wayne Adkins for the fatal shooting of a couple, allegedly fueled by jealousy and obsession. The victims, Brenda Dennis and her boyfriend Richard Bishop, were found dead in Dennis’ home late last week.
Adkins has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder, and is currently being held without bond at the West Virginia Central Regional Jail.
What Happened in Ivydale?
The incident took place on the evening of Thursday, March 31, 2025, in a home located along Big Otter Highway in Ivydale, approximately 50 miles northeast of Charleston. Around 8:30 p.m., a man approached West Virginia State Police officers to report the gruesome discovery of the couple’s bodies inside the residence.
Upon arriving at the scene, troopers found Richard Bishop dead with three gunshot wounds, and Brenda Dennis with a single fatal gunshot wound. Several 9mm shell casings were also recovered at the scene, confirming the type of weapon used in the shooting.
Motive: Jealousy and Obsession
The murder investigation quickly pointed toward Michael Adkins, after witnesses informed police of his long-standing obsession with Brenda Dennis. One witness told authorities that Adkins had openly said he didn’t like Bishop and had even threatened to “kill him one day.”
Brenda Dennis’ own son confirmed this threat to investigators, strengthening suspicions that Adkins’ feelings for Dennis had crossed the line into dangerous territory.
The Alleged Confession
After being identified as a prime suspect, police located Adkins at his home in Duck, West Virginia, and transported him to the West Virginia State Police Clay Detachment for questioning.
During the interview, Adkins reportedly confessed to the double shooting. He told investigators that he had been friends with Brenda Dennis for about three years. He claimed that on March 31, he went to Dennis’ house to give her a ride to the bank, and ended up staying overnight.
The next day, the situation escalated. After an argument, Adkins left the house, but returned later—allegedly because Dennis asked to borrow his car. She came back shortly after, with Richard Bishop in the vehicle.
Later that evening, tensions rose again. Adkins claimed Dennis threatened to “whip his a–.” In response, he pulled out a 9mm handgun, shot Bishop once in the chest, then fired two more shots after he fell to the ground. Adkins then turned the gun on Brenda Dennis and shot her once, ending her life.
“Tired of Being Used”
In his confession, Adkins told police he felt “tired of being used” by Dennis. His statement suggests he believed he was being taken advantage of emotionally or financially, though no evidence has yet confirmed that claim.
Police have not indicated whether the weapon used has been recovered, but the 9mm shell casings found at the scene match the description of the gun Adkins allegedly used.
Where the Case Stands Now
Michael Adkins is facing two charges of first-degree murder, and has not been granted bail. The investigation remains active, and authorities have not yet announced when his court appearance will take place.
This disturbing case has left two families grieving and a small community shaken by senseless violence fueled by jealousy, obsession, and unresolved emotional conflict.