Dates: 1973- June 3, 2022
The Tragedy:
Deputy Sheriff Tom Baker tragically lost his life when he and another deputy responded to a domestic disturbance call in West Virginia. T two deputies were conversing with two men who had come out from a trailer, but when the deputies tried to take them into custody, the two men fled back inside the trailer. The deputies attempted to use a taser but once inside the trailer the two men opened fire on the deputies.
During the exchange Deputy Baker was shot in the back and his partner was shot in the leg while both seeking cover outside the trailer. Despite their wounds, they returned fire. One of the suspects was apprehended after a barricade while the second man was found deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Deputy Baker had dedicated nineteen years to law enforcement and served in various departments. He is survived by his wife, two children, two stepchildren, and two sisters.
More info:
wdtv : New details in deputy’s death
The Service:
Thousands gathered to honor Deputy Baker at the Summersville Armory and Convention Center on June 8, 2022. The funeral began following a procession through the streets of Nicholas County. Many coworkers and friends shared fond memories of the joy and professionalism that Deputy Baker brought to the department and to others in his life.
Commissioner D. Craig Chapman shared, “I find so much comfort, and I encourage everyone here to find so much comfort in the fact that we all know where Tom is, Deputy Baker’s patrolling the streets of heaven as we speak.”
The Governor of West Virginia also spoke saying, “He loved us, and he is a hero, who will remain a hero not only today, but forever and ever and ever, like each and every one of you that protect and look after us every day.”
The memorial closed with Amazing Grace on bagpipes and the end of watch call. Finally, and Deputy Baker was transported to his final resting place in Walker Cemetery. Posthumously, Baker was promoted to Sergeant by the County Sheriff William Nunley.
More info:
wsaz : Deputy fondly remembered
herald-dispatch : Deputy remembered at Nicholas County funeral
The Justice:
The two men were later identified as Tyler Kelly and Richie Holcomb. Holcomb inflicted a gunshot wound to himself at the scene and was pronounced deceased. Kelly is being charged with first-degree murder.
Kelly pleaded not guilty in May of 2023. However, the Nicholas County grand jury filed an 8-count indictment which included charges of murder, attempted murder, wanton endangerment involving a firearm, and conspiracy. As of August 2023, Kelly’s trial is set to begin December 4.
Melanie Clodfelter is also being charged for purchasing the gun used by Kelly and is facing two years in prison and three years of supervised release.
More info:
wsaz : Death of Nicholas County Deputy Baker
wchstv : 8-count indictment
wdtv: New trial date
The Delivery:
An artist has not yet been assigned to complete this portrait.