NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) – A private donor is offering a $40,000 reward for anyone who can help solve a Bellevue homicide case.

The Metro Nashville Police Department said officers responded to the Slate Apartments in the 7400 block of Highway 70 South on May 27 after someone found 60-year-old Rodrigo “Ernie” Aguilar — a beloved musician and custodian — lying outside their apartment.

Police said surveillance video showed Aguilar unloading his vehicle when he seemed to notice something off camera, walked toward the area where he was shot, and died at the scene.

Toby Steele is a longtime friend to Aguilar. They developed a bond through music and Aguilar was even an uncle to Steele’s children.

“We all have broken hearts and the one guy that can fix it is gone,” Steele said.

Steele’s heart was broken after he learned Aguilar’s body was found outside his Bellevue home. The last time he was seen alive was on surveillance video, which showed him unloading his car and then walking out of view.

His death impacted so many lives as he was a beloved musician and served as a custodian for Bellevue Middle School.

“We were thicker than thieves and like brothers,” Steele said. “We did all kinds of gigs across the United States.”

The day before Aguilar died, Steele spoke to him on the phone and they had dinner plans.

Since Aguilar’s death, no one has been arrested. Through this private donation, Steele hopes someone will come forward with information on the one(s) responsible.

If you have any information, contact Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463. Callers to Crime Stoppers can remain anonymous and qualify for a $5,000 reward for homicide and cold cases, in addition to the $40,000 reward from the private donor.