Authorities have arrested the primary suspect in the shooting death of Winston-Salem State University student Najee Ali Baker. Former WSSU student Jakier Shanique Austin, 21, was taken into custody late Wednesday in Charlotte. He was apprehended by the U.S. Marshal's Service and the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department without incident.
Austin has been charged with murder, possession of a gun on educational property and carrying a concealed weapon. He's accused of shooting Baker at a party on the campus of Wake Forest University earlier this year.
Austin is currently being held at the Mecklenburg County jail with no bond allowed, pending his transfer to Forsyth County.
Wake Forest University President Nathan O. Hatch released the following statement:
"I would like to express my solemn gratitude for the diligent work of the Winston-Salem Police Department, the U.S. Marshals Service and other law enforcement agencies for bringing this part of the case to closure. Their tireless efforts, in cooperation with the Wake Forest University and Winston-Salem State University Police Departments, will help our campus communities continue to heal. Our deepest condolences remain with Mr. Baker's family and friends."
Previously, 16-year-old Malik Patience Smith was arrested and charged in connection with the shooting death of Baker. His bond was set at $100,000.