Authorities are currently searching for a man from Hawaii, Jacob Baker, who is considered “armed and extremely dangerous.” He is wanted in connection with the deaths of three individuals found across the Big Island within a two-day span.
Hawaii Police revealed on Thursday that Baker, 36, from Pahoa, is the primary suspect in these cases. Police Chief Reed Mahuna stated that significant resources and personnel are being allocated to locate Baker.
On Monday, Robert Shine, aged 69, was discovered partially submerged in a cement pond. An autopsy later indicated that he died from strangulation.
A second victim, a 79-year-old man, was found on Tuesday, approximately 400 to 500 feet away from Shine. The cause of this man’s death has not been released yet. In addition, Baker is suspected in the death of another man, John Kearse, 69, whose body was discovered about 30 miles from the other locations.
An autopsy showed that Kearse suffered from sharp-impact trauma, although final toxicology results are pending.
During a press conference, Chief Mahuna expressed condolences to those mourning the loss, stating, “These are a tragic series of events.” He noted the understandable fear and concern such incidents create within the community.
So far, authorities haven’t provided details on how Baker was identified as a suspect or what evidence links him to these deaths.
Interestingly, these killings occurred shortly after two women sought temporary restraining orders against Baker, alleging he intimidated and harassed them at his farm. A judge ultimately dismissed their claims, stating there wasn’t enough evidence to support the harassment accusations.
One woman even claimed in court that Baker threatened to kill several female guests living on the property and forced some of them to leave. Steven Shafer, a local resident, noted that Baker stayed on his ex-wife’s property in Puna, where she grows a variety of fruits. Shafer mentioned that there had been tension between Baker and his ex-wife, leading to her seeking a restraining order out of fear.
Authorities have not disclosed where Baker was last seen on the Big Island, while federal agencies, including the FBI and Homeland Security Investigations, are aiding in the investigation.
