DATE: December 9, 2025
SUBJECT: Juvenile Injured in Shooting; One Arrested
RELEASE NUMBER: 2025-NR-1209
CONTACT: Lt. Doug Daza
AUTHORITY: Sheriff Noah Robinson
The Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a shooting that occurred early this morning at a residence in southeastern Vanderburgh County. At approximately 0437 hours, a local hospital notified Central Dispatch that a juvenile gunshot victim had been dropped off at the Emergency Room. The victim’s injuries were determined to be non-life-threatening.
Deputies learned that the shooting occurred inside a residence on Earl Avenue. Sheriff’s deputies, Evansville Police Department officers, and detectives responded to both the hospital and the residence. A resident and several young children were found inside the home, which was secured while detectives applied for a search warrant.
Detectives interviewed the victim, who identified the suspected shooter as Jayson Baker. Baker and a potential witness were located and brought to the Vanderburgh County Operations Center. During an interview, Baker admitted to accidentally shooting the victim and acknowledged ownership of the handgun involved. Baker stated that the victim had handled the gun moments before the shooting and that, after taking it back, he was unaware a round remained in the chamber. Baker said the firearm discharged as he handled it, striking the victim. He then transported the victim to the hospital and left.
A search warrant was executed at the Earl Avenue residence. Detectives recovered three handguns and a spent shell casing. Efforts are ongoing to identify and interview additional witnesses who were reportedly present at the time of the incident. The Department of Child Services was notified due to the victim’s age and the presence of several children inside the residence during the shooting.
Jayson Baker was arrested and charged with Criminal Recklessness with a Deadly Weapon, a Level 5 felony. He was transported to the Vanderburgh County Jail, where he will be held without bond pending his initial court appearance.
Arrested:
Jayson Floyd Baker, 23, Evansville
Charges:
Criminal Recklessness with a Deadly Weapon – Level 5 Felony
Presumption of Innocence Notice:
The fact that a person has been arrested or charged with a crime is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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