GBI, ACCPD news conference updates arrest in Tara Baker case

The GBI is providing more information on last week’s arrest of a suspect in the murder of Tara Baker, 23 year-old University of Georgia law student killed 23 years ago on Athens’ east side. While not offering specifics, GBI Director Chris Hosey said the arrest of 48 year-old Edrick Faust came after a review of evidence compiled since the homicide that happened in January of 2001.

Faust was arrested last week and is being held without bond in the Athens-Clarke County jail.

From WSB TV…

Tara Baker, 23, died in 2001 after someone broke into her off-campus apartment, killed her and then set the house on fire to cover up the murder.

After the case went cold for years, the GBI charged 48-year-old Edrick Lamont Faust with her murder last week.

“Tara Louise Baker was a hardworking student with a bright future ahead of her,” Hosey said after the arrest last week. “Tara’s life was stolen from her in a horrific act of violence. While this arrest does not bring her back to us, I pray that it helps bring closure to the Baker family as they continue their healing journey.”

Faust faces the following charges in Baker’s death: murder, two counts of felony murder, one count of aggravated assault, concealing the death of another, arson, possession of a knife during the commission of a felony, tampering with evidence, and one count of aggravated sodomy.

©2024 Cox Media Group