Hawaii Man Charged with Murder in Triple Killing on Big Island, June 02

Hawaii police charged 36-year-old Jacob Daniel Baker with murder on Saturday in the deaths of three elderly men found in the rural Puna community on Big Island. Baker was apprehended Thursday after a two-day manhunt. The three victims—Robert Shine, 69; Chitta Morse, 79; and John Carse, 69—were discovered between Monday and Tuesday. Baker also faces charges for burglary, auto theft, and property damage.

What Charges Baker Faces

Baker was charged with one count of first-degree murder and three counts of second-degree murder, according to Hawaii Police Department records. First-degree murder applies when someone intentionally or knowingly kills two or more people. He also faces charges of first-degree burglary, unauthorized control of a vehicle, first-degree theft, fourth-degree criminal property damage, and first-degree unauthorized entry into a motor vehicle. His bail for murder charges is set at zero, meaning he cannot be released even if he posts bail for the property crimes.

How the Victims Were Found

Robert Shine was discovered Monday partially submerged in a cement pond in the Puna area. Chitta Morse was found Tuesday a few hundred feet away. John Carse was located late Tuesday at a property 19 miles from where the other two bodies were discovered. Police have not disclosed a suspected motive. Hawaii Police Chief Reed Mahuna said investigators found no connections among the victims other than that two of them lived near each other.

Background on the Suspect

Baker had worked in the Puna community, which is known for its off-grid lifestyle where residents trade work for lodging. A resident reported that Baker had worked for a woman climbing coconut trees on her land in exchange for housing. After several months, the woman sought a restraining order against Baker, saying she felt threatened by him. Community members provided tips that led to Baker’s apprehension during the manhunt.

Impact on the Puna Community

The killings have left residents of Puna on edge. The community sits amid lush jungle and barren lava fields where people seeking to live off-grid commonly settle. Residents expressed fear, sorrow, and frustration over the deaths of three elderly men in their tight-knit settlement. Baker is scheduled to appear in Hilo District Court for his initial appearance.

Final Thoughts

Baker faces murder charges with no bail eligibility and multiple property crime counts. His first court appearance was scheduled for Monday in Hilo District Court. The case highlights safety risks in remote communities.

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