In November of 1992, Janice Randle was found dead on her bed inside her home with her young daughter nearby in a crib. Her estranged husband at the time had told authorities that Janice had likely overdosed since she had a past history of using painkillers. Janice and her estranged husband were going through a divorce and living separately. The initial investigation was treated as a death investigation and possible overdoes. Later autopsy reports showed no drugs in her system at the time of her death. This information led the case to a homicide investigation, but only breadcrumbs of information could be pieced together, with nothing substantial to establish probable cause for an arrest.
The case was reviewed with a new bird’s-eye view of Janice’s cold case when family members came forward, with new information and witnessed confessions from Janice’s estranged husband. The new information and tips led to a thorough investigation with a new perspective. This established probable cause for the now 68-year-old estranged husband who was living in a care facility in Everett, WA. He was arrested April 1, 2026.
It is believed that Janice died as a result of a violent struggle with her estranged husband. Evidence uncovered during the renewed investigation contradicted the original account given in 1992 and helped bring long-awaited clarity to what truly happened.
This case stands as a powerful example of how advancements in technology and investigative practices can bring justice, even decades later. Most importantly, it is a testament to the unwavering commitment of the detectives and investigators who refused to let Janice’s story be forgotten. Their diligence, compassion, and determination have given Janice’s family the closure they have sought for so many years.