Salem, OR – On January 22, 2025, a police-involved shooting at the Laurel Gate Court Apartments in Keizer, Oregon, led to the death of a burglary suspect, 42-year-old Shawn L. Baker. Police have since been cleared of any wrongdoing, with a Marion County grand jury ruling the officers’ actions as justified.
The incident unfolded around 11:30 a.m. when officers with the Salem Police Department located Baker, a suspect in a series of recent business burglaries. After attempting to arrest Baker, he fled on foot into the apartment complex, armed with a handgun. Officers pursued him through the complex, eventually confronting him in a secluded area.
At that point, an altercation ensued, and shots were fired by the officers. Baker was pronounced dead at the scene. Police later confirmed that Baker had been in possession of a firearm during the confrontation.
Following an extensive review of the incident, the grand jury concluded that the officers acted in accordance with the law, justifying the use of lethal force in the encounter. The investigation into the shooting has since been closed, with no charges being filed against the officers involved.
The shooting has raised questions about the use of force in similar situations, though officials emphasize that the officers’ actions were in response to a threat posed by the suspect.
This incident is one of several recent police shootings in the region, bringing ongoing debates about policing practices and accountability to the forefront.
