Joanna Baker, a 22-year-old woman from San Antonio, Texas, tragically lost her life on November 24, 2022. The incident occurred on Thanksgiving night when she was fatally shot in the head. Joanna was transported to University Hospital in critical condition but succumbed to her injuries shortly after. The Bexar County Sheriff's Office identified the victim as Joanna Baker and launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death.
The suspect in the case, 24-year-old Paris
Shaw, was arrested a few days after the incident. Shaw was apprehended after a caller reported seeing him looking into vehicles in the 6000 block of De Zavala Road. According to an affidavit, Shaw had emptied a few rounds from a gun, placed it on Baker's head, and threatened to pull the trigger. A witness heard four gunshots, and Shaw claimed he thought the clip was empty. However, Joanna's brother, Chris Arnett, believes the shooting was intentional and not an accident.
Shaw faced multiple charges, including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and serious bodily injury. He also faced charges of burglary, evading arrest, and criminal trespassing. The investigation revealed that Shaw and Baker were in a relationship, and witnesses reported that Shaw was being loud and belligerent before the shooting. One witness saw Shaw leave a room and return with a small rifle, which he used to threaten and ultimately shoot Baker.
In December 2023, Shaw was given a 25-year plea deal, and his murder charge was changed to aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. According to court records, Shaw had previous convictions for evading arrest and failure to stop and render aid. He must serve half of his sentence before becoming eligible for parole. The tragic death of Joanna Baker has left her family devastated, and they continue to seek justice for their loved one.
