Tara Baker family issues statement after arrest in Athens cold case murder

The family of Tara Baker has released a statement thanking law enforcement for making an arrest in the cold case murder of their daughter. Baker, a 23 year-old law student at the University of Georgia, was killed in 2001, allegedly by 48 year-old Edrick Faust, whose arrest was announced Thursday by the GBI.

The GBI says it will have more to say on the arrest in a news conference in the coming days.

Family of Tara Louise Baker Issues Statement Regarding Arrest

While this is a day we have long prayed for, it is not a day without grief and unanswered questions.

Our family is eternally grateful to the Cold Case Unit with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, the Athens-Clarke County Police Department, and Federal Bureau of Investigation for their dedication and diligence in bringing us closer to the truth that has eluded us for 23 years.

To all the people who have joined our fight, community and have grown to love Tara we cannot begin to express our gratitude for the outpouring of love and support. We know our Tara held a special place in many hearts.

As we process this new information and forge a path we ask for patience and respect for our family’s privacy.

On behalf of Cameron Jay/Classic City Crime:

“My heart is with the family of Tara Baker and all of those who knew and loved her. We are grateful for the diligent work of law enforcement past and present who brought about this arrest. As we process the news and prepare for the next steps of justice, it is my hope that everyone will pause to remember Tara’s beautiful life, and what this monster robbed the world of 23 years ago. I hope, too, that the community will join me in praying for her family as they process the news. I am grateful that Tara’s family and our entire community partnered with countless others to pass the Coleman-Baker Act, which I believe is why there is someone in custody today.”

©2024 Cox Media Group