Boone County Charges Branson Man in Body-Burning Case

A Branson man already awaiting trial for a 2021 homicide now faces additional felony charges in Boone County. Rusty Cain Harvey, 38, is accused of burning the body of his victim and the associated vehicle in an attempt to conceal the crime.

The case dates back to June 2021, following the disappearance of Eric Williamson of Springfield, who had been reported missing 15 days prior to Harvey's arrest. Authorities eventually apprehended Harvey in Sharp County, where he was found barricaded in a closet surrounded by ammunition and multiple firearms.

According to reports from the Branson Police Department, Harvey admitted to shooting Williamson with a .22 rifle. Harvey claimed the shooting was an act of self-defense, alleging that Williamson had come to his home to collect a debt involving marijuana and had threatened his family.

While the murder investigation progressed, witnesses informed authorities that Williamson's body and car had been transported and burned "deep in the woods" within Arkansas. Following his initial arrest, Harvey provided law enforcement with the location of the scene. Investigators subsequently traveled to the Myrtle area, where they discovered the burned-out vehicle and the remains of the victim.

As a result of these findings, Boone County officials have filed new charges against Harvey, including arson, tampering with physical evidence, and abuse of a corpse. A bond has been set at $100,000 for these specific charges.

Harvey remains in custody as he prepares for his legal proceedings. His murder trial is currently scheduled to begin on October 26 in Taney County.

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