On February 10, 2014, a fire on Bentler Street in Detroit led firefighters to a scene of extreme violence. Inside the home, 26-year-old Nicholas Bowman was found alive on the first floor with severe injuries but later died at a hospital. His father, Lawrence Bowman, and a family friend, Michael Hoots, were found dead in the basement.

The Wayne County Medical Examiner determined that Nicholas Bowman and Michael Hoots had been stabbed to death. Lawrence Bowman had been stabbed multiple times and also suffered a fatal gunshot wound to the head. Investigators concluded the fire was set deliberately to conceal the killings, and reports indicate the victims had been tortured before their deaths.

Police identified four suspects — Larry Johnson, 20, and three 19-year-olds, Rashawn Johnson, Tenisha Jackson, and Keeshon Lake — after tracking Hoots’ missing 2013 Chrysler 200 to Redford Township and finding victims’ belongings and bloody clothing in the suspects’ possession. Authorities say the motive was theft of items for Jackson’s birthday, including an Xbox, puppies, a car, and a bridge card. All four were charged with multiple counts including first-degree murder, felony murder, armed robbery, and arson.

Did anyone in the community know the victims or have information about that night that could help clarify unanswered details?