Authorities in Hawaii have charged Jacob Daniel Baker, a 36-year-old man, with multiple counts of murder related to the deaths of three individuals in a remote community. This area is known for its unique, communal lifestyle. Hawaii Police Department announced that Baker faces first- and second-degree murder charges as of Saturday. On Sunday, Baker remained in custody without bond. His initial court appearance is set for Monday. It remains unclear if Baker has legal representation.
The murder charges were filed two days after Baker was captured following a manhunt on Hawaii’s Big Island. The three victims were discovered in the rural Puna community, which is recognized for its lush landscape and diverse community. Robert Shine, aged 69, was found partially submerged in a cement pond on Monday. Police discovered 79-year-old Chitta Morse nearby on Tuesday, only a few hundred feet from Shine. Later that day, the body of 69-year-old John Carse was located 19 miles away.
Police have not provided a motive for the killings. They have identified no connections among the victims, except that two lived in close proximity.
Along with murder, Baker also faces charges of burglary, auto theft, and property damage. These events have caused unrest in Puna, a community characterized by its mix of jungle and lava fields where many residents live off-grid.
Puna local Stephen Shaffer mentioned that Baker had previously worked for his ex-wife. He climbed coconut trees for her in exchange for lodging. After a few months, Shaffer’s ex-wife sought a restraining order against Baker due to feeling threatened by him. Donald Hyatt, a friend of Shaffer’s ex-wife and two of the victims, stated that Baker had left the premises months ago. However, he recently returned, invoking “squatter’s rights,” and subsequently threatened Shaffer’s ex-wife.
Just prior to the murders, two women sought temporary restraining orders against Baker. They alleged harassment and threats, as recorded in court documents. However, a judge denied these applications due to insufficient evidence. Over the past 20 years, Baker has been named in 20 different cases, primarily traffic violations, often representing himself without legal counsel.
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