David Baker

We are sad to learn of the recent death of David Baker, Honorary Graduate and friend of the University.

The former Detective Chief Superintendent and former Head of the Criminal Investigation Department at Leicestershire Police, David worked closely with Professor Sir Alec Jeffreys on the first criminal case to be solved using DNA fingerprinting.

David was the devoted husband of Geraldine, a loving father to Kathryn, David, Jonathan, Karen, and Michael, and a dear grandfather to his 11 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

You are invited to join the family to honour David's memory at St Peter and St Paul’s Church, Syston on Thursday 16 April at 11.00am. The family would appreciate it if those planning to attend could kindly notify them at dwbakerqpm@gmail.com 

Family flowers only, please. Donations to Parkinsons UK, Leicestershire Police Federation Benevolent Fund and Loros via GE Gamble & Sons.

David's son Jon Baker writes:

It is with great sadness that I share the news of the passing of my father, David Baker, on March 20th. While many knew him as the Detective Chief Superintendent who led the first investigation to use DNA profiling, our family knew him as a man of immense integrity and quiet pride.

My father’s career was defined by his partnership with the University of Leicester and Sir Alec Jeffreys. He was profoundly grateful for the University’s groundbreaking research; he had the foresight to trust in that "unproven" science, a decision that changed the world of justice forever.

One of the proudest moments of his life was returning to the University in 2022 to receive his Honorary Doctorate. It was a deeply moving recognition of the bond between his investigative work and the University’s academic brilliance.

To the world, he was a pioneer. To us, he was a beloved father whose legacy lives on in every forensic lab across the globe. 

He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

David Baker QPM (1935–2026)