Photo: INA FASSBENDER / AFP / Getty Images
Police in Hawaii have arrested Jacob Daniel Baker, the suspect in a triple homicide on the Big Island, after a two-day manhunt. Baker, 36, was apprehended on Thursday (May 28) afternoon near the third victim's property in Puna, Hawaii. He was found hiding in a small cave and was arrested without incident.
The manhunt began after the discovery of three separate homicides over two days in the Puna district. The first victim, Robert Shine, 69, was found strangled on Monday evening. A second, unidentified 79-year-old man was found dead from blunt force trauma on Tuesday afternoon, just 400 feet from Shine's location. The third victim, John Carse, 69, was discovered later that night, 19 miles away, having died from sharp force trauma.
Hawaii Police Chief Reed Mahuna expressed gratitude to the public for their assistance in capturing Baker. A tip led officers to the suspect, who was seen ducking in a field near the crime scene. Surveillance footage confirmed his presence in the area. Mahuna stated, "Bringing this suspect into custody without anyone further being harmed is the No. 1 priority."
Baker faces several charges, including suspicion of second-degree murder and first-degree burglary. Police said he was considered armed and dangerous during the search. The investigation continues, with no known motive or connection between the victims, aside from the proximity of the first two.
Residents of Puna expressed relief at Baker's capture. "Everyone’s been really scared," said resident Priya Surrago. Another resident, Aumrae McCarroll, said, "It feels good to know that he’s off the streets and that we can all just—we’re safe."
Authorities urge anyone with additional information to contact Detective Duane Rapoza at (808) 961-2383 or Detective Daniel Tam at (808) 961-2380. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.