Deron E. Baker, a 57-year-old male resident of East Saint Louis, Illinois, was fatally shot on the night of January 1, 2025. The incident occurred at the John DeShields Housing Projects, a public housing complex located on McCasland Avenue. Authorities responded to reports of gunfire at approximately 11:40 p.m. Upon arrival, officers discovered Baker and another victim, 59-year-old Kaven R. Gathing, inside a residence. Both men had sustained gunshot wounds and were pronounced dead at the scene shortly after midnight on January 2, 2025.
The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain unclear, and law enforcement officials have not disclosed any information regarding a potential motive. The Illinois State Police have taken over the investigation, but no arrests have been reported at this time. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
