A Missouri man accused of murdering a 43-year-old woman allegedly laughed when police asked if she was dead — and told another person they “would not have to worry” about her anymore.
Who Was Arrested?
Two men are now in custody in connection with the death of Janice Cook, 43, of Missouri:
- Billy Tabor, 70 — Charged with first-degree murder and abandonment of a corpse
- Colby Eisel, 39 — Charged with abandonment of a corpse
Both are currently held at Henry County Jail.
When Did Janice Go Missing?
Cook was reported missing on April 9 after her social media went silent on March 27. Her friends and family grew alarmed because she would never abandon her dog — which was found a mile away from her abandoned vehicle on March 28.
What Did Police Find?
Investigators traced Cook’s last known location to Windsor, Missouri — where Tabor lived. He admitted she had visited his home in the early morning hours of March 28 but claimed she left after a couple of hours.
Police later learned Tabor had told a woman that she “would not have to worry about J.J. anymore” — using Cook’s nickname. When asked directly if he killed her, Tabor laughed and walked away.
What Did the Witness See?
A witness told police he arrived at Tabor’s home at 2 a.m. on March 28 and saw Cook lying on the ground, believing she was already dead.
According to police, the witness said Tabor then:
- Tied ropes to Cook’s body
- Dragged her using a Honda CR-V
- Forced the witness to help dig a grave
- Wrapped Cook’s body in black fabric and buried her
- Threatened to shoot the witness if he did not move Cook’s vehicle
How Was She Found?
The witness eventually led police back to the property. Human remains were recovered and are believed to be Cook’s, pending forensic confirmation. Her family has been notified.
What Happens Next?
- Tabor is held without bond — bond hearing scheduled May 5
- Eisel is held on $250,000 cash-only bond
The investigation is ongoing.
— Coverage by thecmeaglet.com
