Maurice Antonio Anderson, aged 29, was tragically killed on November 9, 2020, in Saint Paul, MN. The incident occurred outside the Sonesta Suites Hotel in Eagan. According to reports, Eagan police responded to multiple 911 calls around 8:59 p.m. regarding a shooting. Upon arrival, officers found Anderson lying on the ground with multiple gunshot wounds and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The investigation led to the arrest of Robert Lee Baker, also 29, from Saint Paul.
Baker was charged with second-degree murder and possession of a firearm by an ineligible person. According to the criminal complaint, Baker and a woman identified as J.M.A. had gone to the hotel to meet a friend. During their meeting, two men with guns approached their car and robbed them. Baker claimed that after the robbery, he chased the suspects and fired his gun when one of them pointed a weapon at him.
Baker's account of the events changed during police interviews. Initially, he stated that three men had robbed them, but later revised his story to two men. He admitted to shooting Anderson, claiming self-defense as Anderson allegedly pointed a gun at him. Police recovered 16 discharged casings at the scene, consistent with the. 40 caliber handgun Baker used. Additionally, a BB gun was found in the vehicle.
In a subsequent trial, Baker was convicted of second-degree intentional murder. However, in November 2024, the Minnesota Supreme Court granted Baker a new trial, citing improper jury instructions regarding self-defense. The court ruled that Baker was entitled to have self-defense considered, placing the burden on the state to disprove it beyond a reasonable doubt.
