Bridgeville Man Arrested After Armed Confrontation in Felton

FELTON, Del. – Delaware State Police have arrested a Bridgeville man on felony firearm charges after they say he illegally entered a barn and threatened two victims with a firearm late Thursday night.

Troopers arrested 55-year-old John Baker on charges including possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, first degree burglary, two counts of aggravated menacing, two counts of first degree reckless endangering, and related crimes. He was arraigned and committed to the Department of Correction on a $116,600 cash bond.

On Sept. 17, at 11:40 p.m., troopers responded to the 500 block of Black Swamp Road in Felton for a reported assault. A preliminary investigation revealed that Baker, who was described to be intoxicated, entered a barn on the property and became involved in a verbal dispute with a victim. The confrontation turned physical when Baker allegedly began assaulting the victim. During the altercation, Baker allegedly brandished a handgun, pointed it at the victim, and threatened to kill him. A second victim entered the area, and Baker reportedly pointed the firearm at him as well. Baker then fled the barn, firing a single shot into the air before leaving the property. The victims were not injured during the incident.

The DSP Criminal Investigations Unit took over the case and recovered a spent shell casing from the property.

The following day, Baker called 911 and reported that he was located at a gas station in the 11000 block of South Dupont Highway in Felton. Troopers and detectives responded to the gas station and took Baker into custody without incident.

Through investigative efforts, detectives determined Baker gave the firearm to a friend prior to his arrest, and subsequently recovered the firearm.