Elmer Lee Hudler, 60, was found shot to death at his home in Holly Ridge, North Carolina, on April 21, 2014. What began as a tragic death became a murder investigation when police determined the shooting was not accidental.

Investigators say Elmer’s son, Joshua Hudler, arranged a murder-for-hire scheme and recruited a friend, William Parker, to carry out the killing in exchange for insurance money. Prosecutors reported both Joshua and Parker were abusing heroin at the time. Joshua pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and was sentenced to 21–25 years; Parker pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and received 25–31 years, with a court recommendation for psychological counseling and an order that Parker not be housed with Joshua during incarceration.

Anyone who knew Elmer, his family, or who has information about the events leading up to April 21, 2014, is asked to come forward.