More than 150 people gathered outside an Ashland sports pub to plead for the safe return of a missing mother of two.

Lynn Jackenheimer, 33, never returned from vacation in Nags Head, North Carolina. Her ex-boyfriend, 27-year-old Nathan Summerfield, did however, with her two children.  

Summerfield reportedly gave his brother an incriminating statement and hasn't been heard from since Sunday.

Jake Summerfield reportedly told 911 dispatchers, his brother confessed to strangling Jackenheimer in North Carolina.

During Monday night's vigil, family and friends remained hopeful despite the reported confession.

Tracey Cole, the owner of Goodfellows Pizzeria and Sports Pub, spoke highly of Jackenheimer. He said his employee was highly liked by everyone. Cole said Jackenheimer is a good mother and a wonderful person.

 According to reports, the Ashland County Sheriff's Office has confirmed deputies recovered Nathan Summerfield's cell phone in the city of Ashland.  Police in North Carolina are resuming their search for Jackenheimer using search dogs and a helicopter.

Contact the Ashland County Sheriff's Office at 419-289-3911, if you know anything about the case.