Man accused in beating death in custody in New Hanover Co.

WILMINGTON, NC (WCTI) — A suspect accused in a deadly beating is being held in New Hanover County. Investigators say he is one of four accused of beating a man to his death in Emerald Isle.

Murder charges were filed against three of the suspects police say were involved James Edward Baker’s death. Zachary Lilley, Clay Lilley and Curtis Pasch are all charged with murder and are being held without bond. Both Lilleys are in Carteret County Jail, while Pasch was arrested in New Hanover County and will be transported back to Carteret. Christian Guthrie has been charged with 1st degree kidnapping.

Zachary Lilley and Curtis Pasch are both also charged with 1st degree kidnapping and assault with a deadly weapon. Both men are accused of attacking and killing Baker on December 22, 2014. Baker died early Sunday morning.

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