Wayne Ellis was 44 when he was killed on October 8, 1986, in Athens, California. His death was investigated as a homicide and prompted an extensive police inquiry into the circumstances surrounding what happened that day.

Investigators identified several suspects, conducted interviews, and collected forensic evidence as part of building a case. Arrests were made and those suspects faced charges; the matter proceeded through trials that included testimony from witnesses and expert evidence as both sides presented arguments.

The prosecution and defense contested the facts in court, and the litigation concluded with outcomes intended to provide justice for Ellis and his family.