In a tragic turn of events, Columbia Pastor David Baker, Sr. has reportedly taken his own life, just one day after being charged with aggravated sexual battery by the Maury County Sheriff’s Office, as confirmed by Columbia Police Chief Jeremy Alsup.
Baker held the position of lead pastor at Family Baptist Church in Columbia and also campaigned for the role of Maury County mayor during the 2022 election.
Alsup reported that Baker entered the ER at Maury Regional Medical Center, headed directly to the bathroom, and was later discovered deceased there.
Alsup revealed that footage showed Baker entering the hospital’s emergency department.
A bond of $200,000 was posted on Tuesday, with a court date already scheduled for October 9.
Sheriff Bucky Rowland confirmed on Wednesday that Baker is facing charges related to a minor.
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In the 2022 election cycle, Baker initiated a defamation lawsuit in Maury County court against his opponent, the then-Mayor Sheila Butt, but ultimately decided to withdraw it. A former member of Lighthouse Baptist Church, which went bankrupt in 2017, criticized him during the election for his management of a sexual assault incident involving another church member.
Baker, originally from Santa Fe, founded an online Bible college under the Independent Baptist banner, operated a life coaching business, and authored multiple books.
He also led a ministry called Fallen in Grace, alongside Indiana pastor David Hyles. Hyles has been at the center of significant controversy, with multiple media reports from the Fort-Worth Star Telegram highlighting allegations of rape, although he has not faced any charges.
Baker has dedicated 28 years to serving as the chaplain at the Maury County Jail.
