BATES COUNTY, Mo.
Reported by: Sloane Heller
Email: heller@nbcactionnews.com
Posted by: Mike Markewinski
Last Update: 11/24/2008 7:25 am

Dozens spent Sunday searching rural southern Missouri on horseback and ATV. David Cook, a rancher and KCP&L employee has been missing since Wednesday.

Sunday's search was the first organized effort for the 55-year-old man from Bates County.

Cook was last seen on Tuesday, Nov. 19 at his home in the Amoret/Amsterdam area.

"I like there is a very likely possibility foul play was involved. This isn't David," said Judy Transue, David's sister.

Cook's trucks, keys and wallet were left behind. His cell phone, glasses and money clip are all gone.

"As long as there is a thread of hope I have to hang onto that. I still have to use the present tense," said David's girlfriend Laurie.

The all out search has covered thousands of acres.

Friends, family, volunteers and law enforcement are doing what they can. They've turned to canines and helicopters.

Laurie says Cook is her world.

"He always had a smile on his face, he's just a prince, a prince of a man," said Laurie.

According to family, Cook has a lot of friends and contacts in the area. They say he is well respected by nearly everyone.

"I was concerned about some interactions he had with some individuals that was just my instinct but of course he's a strong man and thought I was over reacting."

Officials don't have any suspects. The reward for anyone that helps find Cook is $50,000.

Anyone with information regarding Cook should contact the TIPS Hotline at (816) 474-TIPS or the Bates County Sheriff Department at (660) 679-3232.