I just heard of this case recently and have spent the last few days reading through the three relevant threads. A lot of the information is very fresh in my mind, but it's a significant amount of information to absorb so quickly. Since last night, I've been considering the facts and statements released thus far, so I don't have any links on hand from throughout the threads in this specific post, but will gladly do my best to find them if anyone would like them.
I now have a few questions:
1. Has the autopsy been released revealing the full extent of Joey Comunale's injuries or is that part of the documents under protective order from the prosecution? Regarding motive for the crime, there are a few theories proposed here, but I think some of the more horrific ones could be ruled out based on potential lack of specific injuries and then, thankfully, not mentioned again.
2. One thing I've wondered from the beginning and barely seen mentioned is James Rackover's dog which is supposed to have been in the apartment at least before 10am on the day of the murder. By all accounts this is a very violent murder, and even if the dog's owner is allegedly the one inflicting the violence I find it hard to imagine the dog not also being in an absolute frenzy at that time, barking up a storm or biting anyone. Yet no discussion of loud or unusual noises heard by the other tenants/residents of the building has been mentioned, although admittedly that may be in statements currently withheld by the prosecution. I would assume in such a luxury building, a dog that barks often wouldn't be allowed to stay long, and as for myself, I always notice when a neighbor's normally well-behaved dog is acting loudly and/or out of character.
3. Speaking of the noise involved with such a violent murder, I'm confused on another point. Larry Dilione is claiming his first (And perhaps only? The defendants' stories change faster than a game of musical chairs IMO.) punch at the victim knocked him unconscious, which in theory would account for the lack of shouting or screams from Joey Comunale. But I recall reading in the first thread (My google fu is not the best but if anyone would like me to hunt up this specific link I will do my best.) there was a brief mention of defensive wounds on the victim's hands. So, heartbreakingly, it would appear he was not unconscious during the entire attack. Again, full knowledge of his injuries would be useful to indicate if the victim had been gagged.
4. Do we have any information on when Joey Comunale moved into his townhouse? There was a quote from his father early on in the investigation that he had purchased the townhouse for his son. Something to the effect Joey's mother was waiting up for him often worrying and so a separate residence was provided for their son. (Again, if anyone would like me to find this link, I will do my best.) The waiting up worrying may support the prevailing theory of Joey being a recovering cocaine addict, which is why his lack of contact to his family and friends prompted such quick action in his disappearance.
Another possibility is general mental health issues. If he was known to suffer depression, suicidal tendencies, or mania, an all night cocaine binge could bring on a manic episode or indicate one was beginning. He certainly had a lot of people in his life who cared deeply for him, though they may not all have known his private struggles. That's the full extent of any speculation I'm willing to post at this time.
5. Regarding TOS and not sleuthing victims: does a civil suit claiming culpability on an individual previously considered a victim change their status, or is their status only changed when proclaimed by law enforcement as person of interest/suspect? I'd really appreciate some clarity on that point.
I am very interested to hear the case from the prosecution to bring justice to the senseless tragedy that befell this young man. My heart and prayers are with his loved ones.