Oliver's official report concluded that "there is no witness or physical evidence to lead this investigator to believe at this time this case was a homicide. If new witnesses or evidence were developed by the family that is practical and reasonable this unit would be willing to act on that information."

"Anyone who knows me knows that I don't put up with police misconduct," said Anderson. "If I ever see any indication of wrongdoing I insist on accountability. But there have been incredibly unfair charges leveled against the SLCPD in this case that are threatening to drive a wedge between the west side and our police and perhaps between the Hispanic community and our police."

Eli Herrera left Friday's meeting, which he said ended prematurely, unsatisfied that the police did their job and still convinced that they are covering up a botched investigation. "They haven't answered my questions. I can prove them wrong," he said, vowing to keep his crusade alive.

"It's a tragic thing that happened," said Lt. Burbank. "But we have nothing to suggest it was not accidental. The family does not want to accept that."

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Lee Benson's column runs Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Please send e-mail to benson@desnews.com and faxes to 801-237-2527.