In a shocking case that has captured national attention, David Philip Turner has been arrested in connection with the brutal double murder of his ex-wife, Crema Baker, and her boyfriend, Shawn Ling. The alleged crime occurred in Frederick County, Maryland, where the couple was found dead in their home on August 25, 2024. Authorities reported that both victims suffered more than 40 gunshot wounds, indicating a crime driven by extreme rage and premeditation.
The horrific incident unfolded around 1:30 a.m., while four children were reportedly present in the house. Fortunately, the children were unharmed, though they were forced to hide during the ordeal and emerged only the following morning when they deemed it safe. This tragic event has left the children traumatized, grappling with the loss of their mother and a significant parental figure.
Turner, who lives out of state, became the primary suspect shortly after the murders. Investigators quickly identified him as the possible assailant due to his history with Baker. Following a month-long manhunt, Turner was apprehended on a beach in Florida, where police found him seemingly relaxed, unaware that he was wanted for murder. Body cam footage from his arrest reveals his confusion and disbelief regarding the warrant for his arrest.
Frederick County Sheriff Chuck Jenkins described the crime as particularly heinous, stating that it was not a random act and that the victims likely knew their attacker. The investigation led detectives to conclude that Turner had entered the home through a back door before committing the murders. Evidence gathered during the investigation, including a search of Turner’s apartment and vehicle, ultimately resulted in the issuance of an arrest warrant.
As authorities piece together the circumstances surrounding this tragic event, questions about the motive behind the killings linger. Sheriff Jenkins has indicated that the crime was fueled by intense emotional turmoil, possibly stemming from Turner’s inability to accept his ex-wife’s new life and family. Baker had moved on after their divorce in 2019, which could have contributed to Turner’s alleged anger and jealousy.
Currently, Turner is being held without bond at the Frederick County Jail, awaiting trial scheduled for March 2026. His legal team has faced delays in the proceedings, which have been complicated by the need for numerous witnesses to testify, including potential testimony from the children involved. Experts emphasize the emotional toll this case will have on the young victims, who may have to recount their traumatic experiences in a courtroom setting.
As the case progresses, it raises important questions about domestic violence, the psychological impact of such crimes on families, and the broader implications for community safety. The tragic deaths of Baker and Ling serve as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of unresolved conflict and rage within intimate relationships. The trial will not only seek justice for the victims but also address the lives forever altered by this violent act.
