Ran across some articles many years ago stating that Sonny was investigating shenanigans by the DS in his town. And that several friends/family, including some statements from Cher said his death was not an accident nor happened as reported (assuming I recall it right). Seemed to quickly disappear.

Knowing what we know now…I wish the frogs had been activated back then.

What if he didn’t actually die but turned over the evidence by having it waiting in his residence and assumed another identity?