Officers Down-Santa Cruz PD
Detective Elizabeth Butler and Sergeant Loran Baker were shot and killed as they followed up on a sexual assault investigation at a residence in the 800 block of North Branciforte Avenue at approximately 3:30 pm.
The suspect began fighting with the officers and fatally shot them both during the struggle. He then fled the scene but was located nearby approximately 30 minutes later. He was shot and killed by responding officers when he opened fire on them.
Detective Butler had served with the Santa Cruz Police Department for 10 years. She is survived by her two children and boyfriend.
Sergeant Baker had served with the Santa Cruz Police Department for 28 years. He is survived by his wife, son, and two daughters. Sergeant Baker’s son also serves with the Santa Cruz Police Department.
Please contact the following agency to send condolences or to obtain funeral arrangements:
Chief of Police Kevin Vogel
Santa Cruz Police Department
155 Center Street
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Phone: (831) 420-5800