Steven Wiggins, the man accused of shooting and killing a Dickson County sheriff's deputy, has been taken into custody in Hickman County.
The 48-hour search finally came to an end Friday morning when the 31-year-old was taken into custody on Stinson Branch Road.
Trooper Kevin Burch was traveling down the road when he noticed a man that matched Wiggins’ description. THP officials said Burch approached Wiggins, noticed his tattoos and then drew his weapon.
Wiggins was taken into custody without incident, charged with first degree premeditated murder. TBI Spokesperson Susan Niland said he's being treated at an area hospital and will be booked once he's released.
Wiggins is accused of shooting and killing Sgt. Daniel Baker on Wednesday morning. Sgt. Baker was killed after responding to a call about a suspicious vehicle. His body was found inside his patrol car.
Dickson County Sheriff Jeff Bledsoe said Baker joined the team in 2008. Bledsoe said he was one of their best deputies and quickly moved up the ranks at the sheriff's office.
“This is not closure for us,” an emotional Bledsoe said on Friday. “Closure will only come when we can honor and lay Sgt. Daniel Scott Baker to rest and that we can see a prosecution begin."
During Friday's press conference, Bledsoe also read a statement from Sgt. Baker's wife, Lisa.
"There are no words to describe the level of devastation that myself and family are dealing with. We the family of my husband and best friend, Sgt. Daniel Baker, would like to convey our gratitude to the endless efforts of the law enforcement officers, first responders, EMS, fire and rescue and volunteers in the apprehension of the two suspects that have forever changed our lives. Our deepest thank you. The family and I would like to thank our amazing local community for the outpouring of love and support being shown during this most difficult and trying time. Lastly, I would like to ask our family, friends and community to help our daughter, Meredith, to always know how wonderful and amazing her father is. His service and dedication to his country and community will always be remembered."
Wiggins was considered to be armed and dangerous and was added to the TBI's Top 10 Most Wanted list. The reward for his capture had increased to $46,000.
Wiggins has a lengthy criminal history. He was arrested days ago for domestic assault and investigators said he was high on meth.
A woman suspected to be his girlfriend has also been charged with first degree premeditated murder for her alleged involvement.
District Attorney General Ray Crouch, Jr. stated Friday, "Based upon the evidence and aggravating factors in this case, the State will be seeking the death penalty for both defendants. The defendants are without bail and we will argue against any request for bail."
Wiggins spent most of the day at Tristar Natchez ER in Dickson. He was released and taken to the Dickson County Jail to be booked, but was then transported to the Davidson County Jail to be housed.
While being transported, he was handcuffed in Sgt. Baker's handcuffs.
A GoFundMe has been set up to assist Baker's family. Donations can also be made to the Sgt. Daniel Baker Memorial Fund at any Tri-Star Bank location.
Baker was a veteran, having served the US Marines Corps before he was honorably discharged. He leaves behind a wife and young daughter.
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This is a developing story. Stay tuned for updates.
