Estranged husband arrested in 1992 Pierce County cold case killing

Pierce County detectives have arrested a man in the 1992 cold case killing of Janice Randle, whose death went unsolved for more than three decades.

Randle was found dead in her bed that year, her young daughter in a crib nearby. She and her husband were going through a divorce and living separately, authorities said.

At the time, her estranged husband told investigators Randle had a history of using painkillers and probably died of an overdose — but an autopsy found no drugs in her system.

“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 Pierce County Sheriff’s Department stated. “The new information and tips led to a thorough investigation with a new perspective.”

Pierce County detectives: New evidence contradicts original account of Randle’s death

Detectives said they now believe Randle died after 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,” the sheriff’s office said. “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.”

The man, now 68, was taken into custody Wednesday at a care facility in Everett.

Frank Lenzi is the News Director for KIRO Newsradio. Read more of his stories here.

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