A kind and compassionate young man, Robert Ocke-Hall, who was 23 years old, had his life tragically cut short on April 8, 2016, in Evansville, Indiana. On that day, the male resident of Newburgh, Indiana, was fatally shot in the chest on Fares Avenue. Born on March 11, 1993, in Newark, Delaware, Robert was known for his protective nature, often standing up for others and making those around him feel at ease.
He was an accomplished athlete, excelling in basketball, soccer, football, and wrestling, and had a love for dogs, fishing, martial arts, and cars.
The investigation into the shooting led to the arrest of Kyle Baker, who was 23 at the time. Though initially facing a murder charge, a jury in Vanderburgh Circuit Court convicted Baker of voluntary manslaughter. Surveillance footage presented during the trial showed Baker approaching Robert and his girlfriend prior to the fatal shooting. Baker's defense claimed he did not intend to kill Robert.
During the trial, details of Baker's extensive criminal history came to light, which included juvenile offenses involving violence and weapons, as well as adult convictions for battery, theft, and marijuana possession. It was also revealed that Baker had been using drugs for two days prior to the incident, leading to blackouts. Robert's father, Darrin Ocke, testified about his son's struggles with autism and his desire for independence, which had led to a disruption in his support services. The court also heard about Baker's involvement with a gang called the Crazy White Boys and his attempts to influence witnesses and collect drug debts from jail. For his role in Robert Ocke-Hall's death, Kyle Baker was sentenced to 45 years in prison, which included 30 years for manslaughter and an additional 15 years for the use of a firearm during the crime.
