Arrest Report: Killer Stabbed 35 Times, Cut Throat

A man believed to be homeless has been arrested in the killing of Wilkin Mieses Baker, 27, whose dead body was discovered by a landscaper May 14, lying face down in the grass at the north side of Extra Space Storage on the east side of Providence Road, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office.

Surveillance video from a nearby convenience store on Providence Road reportedly showed Baker, wearing a "gold neck chain," inside the store with his alleged killer May 13, at around 10:47 p.m.

In custody is Washington Emiliano Beltran, who turns 19 on May 20. He faces charges of first-degree murder and armed robbery, according to the sheriff's report. It was determined, too, that Beltran had an outstanding arrest warrant for felony violation of probation.

The Hillsborough County Medical Examiner's Office reported that Baker's throat had been cut and that he had been stabbed 35 times. His gold chain was missing, as well as $100 he reportedly had been carrying.

After learning that Beltran had recently been seen at a nearby apartment complex, homicide detectives searched that complex "and found Beltran standing in a stairwell," according to the report. "Beltran does not live in the apartment complex and is believed to be homeless."

Beltran reportedly confessed to Baker's killing.

According to the sheriff's report:

• Beltan and Baker met for the first time at a fast-food restaurant near the crime scene. There, they "agreed to purchase and smoke marijuana together."

• After leaving the convenience store, where they had been captured on video, they walked to the rear of Extra Space Storage. There, the attack began.

• "Beltran punched Baker in the face at least one time and then began stabbing and cutting Baker with a knife." Baker attempted to flee, but got only about 15 to 20 yards, as Beltran continued his attack until Baker collapsed and died.

Still missing is the gold chain. Recovered was Baker's backpack, which Beltran reportedly was wearing when detectives found him in the apartment stairwell. Baker's bicycle reportedly was found as well, near the stairwell.

According to the report, detectives recovered bloody clothing worn and disposed of by Beltran as well as the knife used in the crime.

Beltran was booked into the Hillsborough County Jail, where he was being held without bond.