Chris Lee Hays was 27 and a Venice, Florida resident when he was shot and killed on March 1, 2014. Police say the shooting occurred shortly after midnight in a North Port duplex on Deming Avenue after Hays allegedly forced his way into the residence. Joseph Catalioti, also 27, fired the shot that killed Hays, according to authorities. The police have not released the shooting report, and say the investigation is ongoing.

Family and friends held a celebration of Hays’ life at the Tap & Cork Wine Bar and Tavern on Venice Island, where donations were collected for funeral expenses and the education of his two young children. Those who knew Hays described him as smart, caring, and funny, but some have expressed skepticism about the account that he forced entry and say his actions that night remain unclear. It is also not known whether Catalioti and Hays knew each other. Catalioti, who works for the Florida State Forest Service at Myakka State Forest, has not been charged in connection with the shooting.

Does anyone have information that could clarify what happened that night or that can help Hays’ family get answers?