“Trial Date Set for Man Charged in Shooting Death of Nicholas County Deputy Tom Baker”

The trial for the man charged in the shooting death of Nicholas County Deputy Tom Baker has been postponed to a later date, according to the Nicholas County Prosecutor’s Office. Brent Kelly, 29, of Birch River, was originally scheduled to go on trial on August 29, but the new judge on the case, Webster County Circuit Judge Jack Alsop, requested more time. As a result, the trial has been rescheduled for December 4.

In addition to the trial date change, the defense has also requested additional items of discovery. This suggests that they are seeking further evidence or information that could potentially be beneficial to their client’s case.

The shooting incident occurred in June 2022 when Deputy Baker was responding to a situation involving two barricaded individuals inside a camper in Birch River. The two men inside the camper were identified as Brent Tyler Kelly and Richie Holcomb. They were found barricaded with a 9mm handgun and an AR-15.

According to the 911 log, shots were fired from inside the camper towards the deputies, resulting in Deputy Baker and another deputy being hit by bullets. Deputy Baker was tragically killed in the incident, while Holcomb was found dead at the rear of the RV with a semi-automatic assault rifle in his possession.

Brent Kelly was subsequently taken into custody and is currently being held without bond at South Central Regional Jail.

The trial will be a critical step in seeking justice for Deputy Baker’s death and determining the extent of Kelly’s involvement in the shooting. As the trial date approaches, both the prosecution and defense will likely continue to gather evidence and build their cases. The delay in the trial provides an opportunity for all parties involved to thoroughly prepare and ensure a fair and thorough legal process..