A forensic expert examined footprints at the falls rim before rain erased them. Her report suggested two adult sets, consistent with voluntary walking, no drag marks or signs of struggle, and no third-party impressions. It was all that they expected to find, and yet, Detective Dellray wasn’t satisfied.
The case file ran to 58 pages. The senior detective called Dellray in. “There’s nothing more without new evidence, Marcus.” The ruling was accidental drowning, bodies unrecovered—not unusual for mountain terrains. Both families obtained death certificates. Two life insurance policies were paid out—Ryan’s to his parents, Claire’s to her parents—totaling $280,000.