Mesa Police Release Timeline of In-Custody Death Incident

Authorities detail the arrest and struggle that preceded the death of 52-year-old Eric Baker.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 3:36am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a handcuff or other police equipment, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.The harsh, unforgiving light of a police investigation shines a spotlight on the tools used to subdue individuals in custody, raising questions about the tactics and outcomes.Mesa Today

Mesa police have provided new details about the arrest and in-custody death of Eric Baker, 52, who died after a struggle with officers following a bicycle stop. Police say Baker resisted arrest, leading to a physical altercation where officers used force options like strikes and stun guns, but Baker remained uncooperative. After being handcuffed, Baker continued displaying erratic behavior until he became unconscious on the way to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

Why it matters

In-custody deaths are a sensitive and controversial issue, raising questions about police use of force, de-escalation tactics, and medical care for individuals in police custody. This incident will likely prompt further investigation and scrutiny of the Mesa Police Department's policies and practices.

The details

According to police, officers initially tried to pull over Eric Baker for riding his bicycle without a front light, a traffic violation. Baker fled the stop, leading officers on a short chase before crashing his bike. Police say Baker then resisted arrest, pulling away and kicking at officers. After a struggle lasting over a minute, officers were able to handcuff Baker, but he continued acting erratically, yelling and flailing on the ground. Medical personnel were called but could not check Baker's vital signs due to his movements. On the way to the hospital, Baker became unconscious and was unresponsive, despite lifesaving efforts by first responders.

  • Officers attempted to pull over Baker around 9:30 pm on April 6, 2026.
  • The physical altercation between Baker and officers lasted approximately 1 minute and 35 seconds.
  • About 45 seconds after being handcuffed, Baker was moved into a 'recovery position'.
  • Approximately 40 seconds later, officers called for medical assistance.
  • Baker became unconscious on the way to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

The players

Eric Baker

A 52-year-old man who died after a struggle with Mesa police officers following a bicycle stop.

Mesa Police Department

The law enforcement agency investigating the in-custody death of Eric Baker.

Detective Jessie Macias

A Mesa police detective who provided details about the incident in an emailed statement.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'We recognize the seriousness of this incident and are committed to conducting a complete and transparent review of the circumstances surrounding this incident.'”

— Detective Jessie Macias, Mesa Police Department

What’s next

The Mesa Police Department has stated that the cause of Eric Baker's death is under investigation. The findings of this investigation, as well as any potential policy changes or disciplinary actions, will be closely watched by the community.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges and controversies around police use of force, particularly in situations involving individuals experiencing mental health crises or other erratic behavior. The Mesa Police Department's handling of the situation and the outcome will likely face intense scrutiny as the community seeks answers and accountability.