The Henry County Sheriff’s Office, in coordination with law enforcement partners and resources, continues to actively investigate the disappearance and suspected homicide of Janice Cook, originally reported in early April 2026.
As a result of ongoing investigative efforts, detectives developed probable cause leading to the arrest of:
- Billy Ray Tabor, 70, of Windsor, Missouri
- Colby Dean Eisel, 39, of Windsor, Missouri
Investigators have determined that Janice Cook was last known to be in the area between Leeton and Windsor, Missouri, during the early morning hours of March 28, 2026. Her vehicle was later located abandoned in a rural area of Johnson County, Missouri, under circumstances that raised concerns for her safety.
Further investigation established that Cook had been in contact with and was present at Tabor’s residence prior to her disappearance. As the investigation progressed, detectives developed evidence and witness statements indicating that Cook was the victim of a homicide and that her body was concealed on the property.
At this time, investigators have located and recovered a deceased individual following an extensive search effort. Recovery operations have been conducted over the past two days during the execution of the search warrant. Based on the totality of the investigation, the deceased is believed to be Janice Cook, and contact has been made with her family. Additional forensic processing is ongoing to obtain a 100% positive identification.
The Henry County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, under Prosecutor Gray, filed formal complaints, and warrants were subsequently issued in this case.
Billy Ray Tabor has been formally charged with:
- Murder in the First Degree (Class A Felony)
- Abandonment of a Corpse (Class E Felony)
Tabor is currently being held at the Henry County Detention Center on a no bond warrant.
Colby Dean Eisel has been charged with:
- Abandonment of a Corpse
Eisel is currently being held at the Henry County Detention Center on a $250,000 cash-only bond.
This investigation remains active and ongoing. Probable cause statements will be made available for public review in accordance with Missouri law.
The Henry County Sheriff’s Office is committed to providing accurate and responsible information to the public. During active investigations, our priority remains on following leads and deploying all available personnel and resources, which may delay public updates. We do not issue formal releases until a deceased individual is presumptively identified through investigative and forensic processes, rather than speculation. Most importantly, we ensure that family notifications are made and conversations occur prior to any public release, out of respect for those affected.
The Henry County Sheriff’s Office extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Janice Cook during this difficult and tragic time.
We also extend our sincere appreciation to agencies and personnel who have committed significant time and resources to this investigation, including:
Cass County Sheriff’s Office, Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, Vernon County Sheriff’s Office, Pettis County Sheriff’s Office, Henry County Emergency Management, Johnson County Emergency Management, Integrity K-9 Services, Windsor Four County Fire Department, Clinton Fire Department, Missouri State Highway Patrol, and additional assisting agencies.
Detectives from all of the above Sheriff’s Offices have worked this investigation continuously, and those efforts remain greatly appreciated and ongoing.
Sheriff Aaron N. Brown
