Marietta man arrested in deadly Cobb County car wash shooting

Daniel Lanard Richardson Jr. (Marietta Police Department)

A 70-year-old man from Marietta, Robert Baker, has been arrested and charged in connection with the deadly shooting of 59-year-old Daniel Lanard Richardson Jr. 

What we know:

The incident occurred at a Cobb County car wash last month. On Dec. 30, 2024, Cobb County police responded to a call shortly after 8 p.m. regarding an unresponsive man in a car wash bay located on the 1200 block of Bellemeade Drive. Upon arrival, officers discovered Richardson's body with apparent gunshot wounds, and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

  • Dec. 30, 2024: Police received a call just after 8 p.m. about an unresponsive man at a car wash on Bellemeade Drive. Officers found Daniel Lanard Richardson Jr. deceased with gunshot wounds.
  • Late Monday Night: Robert Baker was taken into custody and is currently held without bond at the Cobb County Adult Detention Center.
Robert Baker

Robert Baker (Cobb County Sheriff's Office)

What we don't know:

While police have confirmed that Baker and Richardson were acquaintances, the exact nature of their relationship remains unclear. Authorities are still investigating the circumstances surrounding Richardson's death and have not disclosed a possible motive for the shooting.

What's next:

Authorities are continuing their investigation into Richardson's death and are urging anyone with information to come forward. Baker faces serious charges, including felony murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime. The community is encouraged to assist law enforcement by providing any relevant information that could aid in the investigation.

The Source: The details in this article were provided by the Cobb County Police Department. The Cobb  County Sheriff's Office provided the mugshot for Baker and confirmed his incarceration.

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