The Jackson County District Attorney’s Office announced the dismissal of charges, including second-degree murder, against a Mexican national, citing new evidence in the case.

In November 2022, Jose Alfredo Sotelo-Palma of Sinaloa, Mexico, was indicted on charges to include second-degree murder in connection to a homicide that occurred at a marijuana growing and processing facility outside Jacksonville.

The victim was identified as Luis Ayala-Zavala. Recently, however, additional information and details were provided by witnesses that was not previously known from prior interviews, according to a news release from the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office.

“This new information significantly impairs the State’s ability to proceed to trial at this time,” the release said. “Detectives continue to actively investigate and follow-up on all leads and information and are pursuing all avenues to ensure a thorough review of the case in light of the new information.”

The DA’s office said future developments will be shared “as appropriate.”

“However, due to the ongoing nature of the investigation, no further statements can be provided at this time,” the release said.