On September 17th, 2001, Marion County Sheriff's Deputy Jason M. Baker, #232, was killed in the line of duty. Deputy Baker was enroute to a disturbance when his attention was diverted by a vehicle that he then attempted to investigate. The driver of the vehicle refused to stop, and Deputy Baker pursued. The chase reached the intersection of 32nd and Brouse where suspects exited the vehicle. It was at this time that Deputy Baker was fatally wounded.

By early the next day all suspects were located. Three were arrested and the fourth was found dead. On February 18, 2003, Michael Shannon pleaded guilty to killing Deputy Jason Baker. In return for pleading guilty Shannon did not face the death penalty, but was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Because he confessed to the killing he is not able to appeal. He also pleaded guilty to two counts of attempted murder and other charges.

Deputy Baker was appointed as a Merit Deputy on June 1, 1999. He also worked as a Marion County Sheriff's Department Tele-Communicator in the Communications Division from 1995 through 1996 and as a Special Deputy from 1997 until his appointment as a Merit Officer.

On September 21st, 2001, Deputy Jason Matthew Baker was laid to rest in Crown Hill Cemetery in Indianapolis. His MCSD radio and badge numbers were permanently retired by the department and not be used again.

"All Marion County Units, 232 has marked 10-42 and has gone home for the final time."

A scholarship fund was established in memory of Deputy Baker. This fund is managed by the Central Indiana Community Foundation and will provide scholarships to those seeking careers in public safety. Contributions to the scholarship fund may be made at any Key Bank Branch to the Jason M. Baker M. Baker Scholarship Fund. Contributions may also be addressed to:

Jason M. Baker Memorial Scholarship Fund
C/O Key Bank,
Market Tower Center
10 West Market Street
Indianapolis, Indiana 46204

Source:  MCSD In Memorian web page (Dec. 7, 2006)