Daniel Baker, aka Marv Ellis.
The relentless community search is over for 44-year-old Redding resident Daniel Baker — aka Marv Ellis — who went missing on Sept. 12.
Wednesday morning Beth Ladd, Ellis’ sister, released a statement that confirmed her brother’s death:
“I’m devastate to share that the remains of our beloved Marv Ellis were found yesterday. It’s not the outcome any of us were hoping for and we will be forever grateful to every person that searched for him, prayed for him, put up posters and shared his photo. Marv will always be remembered as a prince of kindness and service to others.
Today the world became just a little less shiny. Forever in our hearts. Rest now Big Brother.”
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Soon after Ellis went missing on Sept. 12, Ellis’ friend Nathan Pinkney, Ladd and others made several social media posts about Ellis’ disappearance, and organized mass grid searches in an attempt to find Ellis. Those searches were unsuccessful.
Ellis was beloved for his compassion, and was perhaps best known for making tacos and other food that he gave away in Caldwell Park, mostly to the hungry and the homeless.
In a video message released this afternoon, Pinkney shared the news of Ellis’ death, and talked about his friend:
“The world lost one of its greatest humans. He spent his life helping people. He was one of my best friends. He was a fighter. I’m going to miss him so much. Rest in power, brother. I know your shine is still going to be here with us.
I don’t know what else to say.
Thank you for everyone who helped search. Right now I think that we need to support the family. I think there’s going to be a fundraiser to help them cover any costs, so if you could help with that.
I’m sorry everybody.”
On Sept. 15 the Redding Police Department released a statement asking for the public’s help locating Ellis, after his mother requested RPD’s help in locating her son after he left their residence on foot while appearing upset.
Officers say they searched for him but were unable to find him.
Redding Police searched for Marv Ellis. Photo by Nathan Pinkney.
A News Cafe will publish more information as we learn more.
