Daniel Gene Lutz, a 28-year-old business owner, was found dead behind the counter of Lutz Sporting Goods and Grocery Store on State Road 44, about 4.5 miles west of Liberty, on June 22, 1976. The body was discovered at approximately 12:50 p.m. The scene and circumstances pointed to a violent robbery and suggest he was ambushed during store hours.

Investigators identified a few persons of interest early on; one individual was questioned and later released, but no arrests were ever made. The case is now considered a cold case by the Indiana State Police and remains an open, active investigation. The killing has left a lasting impact on his family and the rural community around Liberty.

If anyone has memories of that day, saw suspicious activity near State Road 44 in June 1976, or has information that could help bring answers, please come forward.