Manuel Francisco Frank Alfaro, a 52-year-old Hispanic ironworker from Gary, Indiana, was fatally shot at his home in New Chicago on March 31, 2018. Alfaro, born January 24, 1966, was killed in the same incident that also took the life of 39-year-old Heather Rayner, who was with him at the residence.

Investigators identified 26-year-old Teal L. Cross of Hammond as a suspect and court records alleged the motive was a drug debt. Cross was arrested and charged in connection with both deaths. In July 2019 prosecutors dropped the murder charges, citing delays in DNA test results and other evidentiary problems, while stating an intention to refile at a later date.

What information might help clarify the events at the New Chicago residence on March 31, 2018?