Man Dies After Being Tased and Arrested Following Mesa Foot Pursuit

By Staff Reporter

iSkyNews.com (ISN) – Published April 6th, 2026

🚨 News Summary: In-Custody Death Under Investigation

Location: Dobson Road and University Drive, Mesa, Arizona
Date/Time: April 4, 2026, just after 8:30 p.m.
Individual: Eric Baker, 52
What Happened: Bicycle stop led to foot chase, arrest, and medical emergency
Outcome: Baker later died at the hospital
Status: Cause of death pending medical examiner’s report

MESA, AZ — Mesa Police are investigating the death of a man following an arrest that began with a bicycle stop and escalated into a foot pursuit and physical struggle, according to officials.

The incident occurred on April 4, 2026, just after 8:30 p.m., near Dobson Road and University Drive, where officers conducting proactive patrol observed 52-year-old Eric Baker riding a bicycle in traffic without a required front light.

When officers attempted to stop Baker using emergency lights and sirens, police say he failed to comply and fled, riding westbound before turning into a nearby apartment complex. Officers then pursued him on foot.

Authorities say Baker crashed his bicycle during the chase, landing on a concrete walkway. As officers attempted to take him into custody, Baker allegedly resisted arrest, pulling away, refusing commands, and kicking at officers.

Police report that officers used multiple force options, including physical strikes and several Taser deployments, during the struggle, which lasted approximately one minute and 35 seconds before Baker was placed in handcuffs. He was being arrested for aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer and an active felony warrant for a probation violation.

Shortly after being restrained, officers placed Baker into a recovery position and requested emergency medical assistance. While awaiting responders, Baker reportedly continued to display erratic behavior, including yelling and flailing.

Medical personnel arrived but had difficulty assessing Baker’s vital signs due to his condition. He was transported to a local hospital for evaluation.

While en route, Baker became unresponsive, prompting immediate life-saving efforts by medical personnel. Despite continued treatment at the hospital, Baker was later pronounced deceased.

The cause of death remains under investigation by the Maricopa County Medical Examiner.

Mesa Police say they are conducting a full and transparent review of the incident, acknowledging the seriousness of an in-custody death.

iSkyNews.com will continue the monitor for the finalized report from the Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s Office.