Lanterns episode 6 jumps forward to 2026 to investigate the murder of Hal Jordan, the fallen Green Lantern who spent ten years in prison after taking the blame for a 2016 incident in Rushville. The episode explores the aftermath of his death as Sheriff Kerry Kane brings John Stewart into the investigation, with an autopsy revealing Hal was shot at point-blank range by someone he knew or trusted. This development marks a significant turning point for the series as it moves squarely into the DC Universe's present day with three episodes remaining.

The investigation presents multiple suspects, though John Stewart is quickly cleared despite punching Hal and breaking his nose the night of his death—the journey from Midway City to Rushville would have taken him too long to be responsible. Sheriff Kerry Kane, who rekindled a relationship with Hal following his release from prison, is emotionally exonerated by John, who believes her grief genuine. Maggie, the diner waitress who witnessed John and Hal's confrontation, emerges as a suspicious figure when she deliberately avoids Kerry's questions about Hal's final hours and later demands $314,536.27 from John, claiming it represents her losses from the 2016 destruction of Rushville.