The preliminary hearing for a man accused of killing a psychiatrist in a Gayborhood hotel was continued until February.
Manuel Baez, 27, is now scheduled for a hearing at 9 a.m. Feb. 10 in Room 306 of the Criminal Justice Center, 1301 Filbert St. He faces charges of criminal homicide, robbery and related offences in the death of Dr. Howard Baker, 75, in a room at the Rodeway Inn at 12th and Walnut streets.
According to authorities, Baker, of Lower Merion Township, frequently stayed at the hotel, located a couple blocks from his practice in the 1400 block of Walnut Street. A housekeeper at the hotel discovered Baker’s body Dec. 21. He was naked on the floor with a belt wrapped tightly around his neck.
The cause of death was ruled strangulation, according to Officer Leeloni Palmiero, a Philadelphia police spokeswoman.
Investigating officers determined Baker checked into the hotel Dec. 20. In the evening, two males visited Baker’s room separately. The second was seen leaving the room just after midnight with Baker’s wallet and backpack.
Authorities contend this person was Baez. A motive is still being investigated.