The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) stated that on the morning of January 19, 2001, at around 11:15 am, firefighters in Athens-Clarke County discovered the body of 23-year-old Tara Louise Baker in an apartment building in Athens during a fire. The fire was deliberately set, but the cause of Baker’s death remains unclear.
Baker, a graduate of Lovejoy High School in 1995, was a freshman at the University of Georgia School of Law before her death. After high school, she also attended Georgia College in Milledgeville.
The GBI’s Cold Case Unit, which investigates long-standing unsolved cases, collaborated with the Athens-Clarke County Police Department in September 2023 to investigate Baker’s death. Edrick Lamont Faust, 48, was charged in connection with her murder. Records from the Clarke County Jail indicate that Faust was arrested on May 9 and charged with murder, two counts of felony murder, aggravated assault, concealing the death of another, arson, possession of a knife in the commission of a crime, tampering with evidence, and aggravated sodomy. The GBI has not disclosed further details related to Baker’s death.
After Faust’s arrest, Baker’s family released a statement through the Classic City Crime Podcast on the evening of May 9. They expressed gratitude to the GBI Cold Case Unit, Athens-Clarke County Police Department, and GBI for their dedication and efforts in bringing them closer to the truth that has haunted them for 23 years.
“We are deeply thankful for the love and support from everyone involved in our fight, the community, and those who have grown to love Tara. We know that our Tara holds a special place in many hearts. As we process this new information and forge a path forward, we ask for patience and respect for our family’s privacy,” the family of Baker stated.
GBI Director Chris Hosey described Baker as a hardworking and promising individual whose life was tragically taken by an act of violence. He expressed hope that Faust’s arrest would aid in the healing journey of Baker’s family.
“I am proud of the work of the GBI Cold Case Unit and grateful for the GBI agents and scientists who have dedicated the past 23 years to seeking justice for Tara. I also thank the investigators from Athens-Clarke County, GBI, and Georgia State Patrol for their collaboration. While this arrest marks the first step in seeking justice for Tara, there is still more work to be done. The GBI and our partners will never cease fighting for victims and their families,” Hosey added.
Former Athens-Clarke County Police Department Chief Jerry Saulters, who was an officer at the time of Baker’s death, reflected on the case that has accompanied him throughout his career. Saulters expressed appreciation for the diligent work of detectives then and now.
“I remember that dreadful moment,” he recalled. “Seeing this case finally resolved, I appreciate the hard work of the detectives then and now. Knowing that the evidence collected back then has contributed to today’s arrest makes me immensely proud of all the officers who have worked on this case over the years.”
A press conference regarding Faust’s arrest was held by the GBI on May 13 at 2:30 pm.