Loran Butch Baker - Law Enforcement - California

Sergeant Loran Baker Detective, age 51, died in the line of duty on February 26, 2013, in Santa Cruz, California.

He was a member of the Santa Cruz Police Department. He had 28 years of service. 

He was known as "Butch" to his friends and comrades. 

Sergeant Loran Baker and Detective Elizabeth Butler were following up on a sexual assault investigation at a residence at approximately 3:30 pm.

The suspect began fighting with the officers and fatally shot them both during the struggle. He then stole both of their handguns and fled the scene in their unmarked vehicle. He was located nearby approximately 30 minutes later and was shot and killed when he opened fire on responding officers. The subject was wearing body armor at the time he was killed by other officers.

Police Department officials state that the Department is in mourning over this horrible tragedy.

Michael, Archangel, Patron
Saint of the Police, pray for
Butch

Loran had served as a field training officer and traffic investigator. Police officials describe him as a remarkable teacher and a skilled investigator who gave his all to the Department.

Others describe him as personable, thoughtful and approachable. He was a salt of the earth type of guy.

Loran is survived by many loving friends and relatives, including his wife, Kelly; two daughters - Jillian and Ashley; and his son, Adam, who is also a law enforcement officer.

Pray for all who die in the line of duty.

Thank you for serving, Butch. 

Let us pray that Loran Baker is in heaven. Let us pray that he is at peace and is with God. Amen.