Nicole Sierra, 38, was killed the night of March 8, 2017, at her Ringwood, New Jersey home on Van Dunk Lane. Around 11:54 p.m. a shotgun blast was fired through the glass of her front door and struck Sierra, who did not survive.

Earlier that evening an altercation reportedly occurred at the home between Sierra’s ex-boyfriend, Clinton J. Degroat, and a male visitor. Degroat, also 38 and a Ringwood resident, allegedly left and then returned armed with a shotgun; police recovered a shotgun near the scene. Degroat was identified as the primary suspect, arrested, and charged with first-degree murder, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and unlawful possession of a weapon. A judge denied bail, with prosecutors saying the shooting followed the earlier confrontation and the defense describing the act as passion provocation.

If anyone knew Nicole, Clinton Degroat, or observed activity on Van Dunk Lane that night, please share what is known.