Francisco Ayo‑Roman, a 30‑year‑old man of Puerto Rican heritage, was found slain on August 6, 2004, in Deltona, Florida. He and his girlfriend, 22‑year‑old Erin M. Belanger were among six people discovered beaten to death in a three‑bedroom house; the victims also included Michelle Ann Nathan, Roberto Tito Gonzalez, Anthony Vega and Jonathan Gleason. Law enforcement described the scene as extraordinarily brutal; the victims had been attacked with aluminum baseball bats and, in some cases, knives, and were assaulted in different rooms of the home.

Authorities say the violence was precipitated by a dispute over personal property, including an Xbox console, after Belanger had reported squatters at her grandparents’ vacant property and had some items removed or packed. Four men — Troy Victorino, Robert Cannon, Jerone Hunter and Michael Salas — were arrested and charged with first‑degree murder and armed burglary. At their initial court appearance on August 9, 2004, bail was denied and public defenders were appointed.

Are there readers who knew Francisco, Erin, or any of the other victims and can share details that might help preserve their memories?