My guesses on why this _really_ happened:

- The candidate was asking for more than what the others on the panel made, which was a no-no.

- The candidate was asking for what they currently make while being younger/less tenured than the others; also a no-no.

- The others on the panel had cost savings to the company as a performance target.

- They had beef with you and the candidate.

- They preferred another candidate, and they were fine with the comp.