SWAN LAKE — It’s been more than a year since Swan Lake resident Ira Zolchonock lost his life.

After all that time his friends and family don’t have many answers - only questions.

As the Democrat reported in 2021, Zolchonock was involved in what New York State Police (NYSP) described as an “altercation” near his residence on Teddy Bear Lane on the evening on May 19.

Zolchonock, 61, had reportedly called the police several times over a two-year period regarding loud music being played at a nearby property.

Zolchonock reportedly walked over to that property on May 19 to complain about the level of noise. Exactly what happened next is unclear, but Zolchonock died early the next day at Garnet Health Medical Center - Catskills. Those who were close to him have alleged that he was severely beaten.

 Since then, the NYSP has declined to answer questions about the case. A Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) request filed by the Democrat seeking further information was also declined.

When reached for comment last week, NYSP Troop F Public Information Officer Steve Nevel said that no arrests have been made and an investigation remains open.

“The DA’s office is still reviewing the facts of the case to determine what direction to go in at this time,” Nevel said.

When reached for comment last week, District Attorney Meagan Galligan said Sullivan County’s police community is still following and seeking new leads in connection into the incident.

“The New York State Police are the lead investigative agency on this case and my Office continues to support them as they move forward," Galligan said. "We encourage the public to reach out to the State Police at (845) 292-6600 with information in connection with Ira’s death.”

In the meantime, those closest to Zolchonock said they’ve “been through hell” over the past year trying to make any sense of his death.

“When a beloved member of our community is murdered, and the person responsible is not held accountable, something is terribly wrong,” said Nancy Levine, a Swan Lake resident and friend of Zolchonock.

Zolchonock is warmly remembered as an avid motorcycle and snowmobile enthusiast. The second annual Ride for Ira will commence on Saturday, June 4 (rain date June 11) at the Swan Lake Fire Department located at 52 Stanton Corners Road followed by a celebration of his life at the Firehouse Ball Field.

All donations will go to Catskill Animal Rescue, where Ira adopted his beloved German Shepherd, Montana.