Bridgeport police released security camera footage to News 12 in hopes of identifying a man they believe is connected to the death of a local woman who was found in a shopping cart nearly six weeks ago. Police identified the woman as Rickyeta Baker, 37, and said the medical examiner is still waiting for tests to come back before determining Baker’s cause and manner of death. But they think the public could be key to giving her loved ones some peace this holiday season.

On a cold, sunny morning this week, the police department’s Homicide Unit joined Baker’s family and appealed to the community to try and help determine the final hours of Baker’s life. They gathered at the dumpster behind the American Legion on Stratford Avenue, the site Baker was found on Nov. 3 around 4 p.m.

“Police received a 911 call from an individual that stated that their younger sibling had located what they believed was a human body in a shopping cart here behind me near the dumpster,” said Detective Keith Hanson. “Ms. Baker was placed here in a manner which nobody should be placed. I can’t stress that enough.”

Hanson told News 12 surveillance footage shows a person dumping Baker there on Oct. 31, just days before she was discovered.

“A male appears to be pushing a shopping cart with Ms. Baker concealed inside down Fourth Street in the early morning hours about 3:30 a.m.,” Hanson stated. He said the man then pushes the shopping cart behind the American Legion, where he appears to spend several minutes trying to hide Baker from the public view even more so in the cart.

Police shared video of that man walking down Fifth Street after he left the cart. They said they believe he probably lives in the area or has strong ties to it.

“We ask that the individuals in the community take a close look at the video and see if they recognize this male. He has some unique characteristics and a walk that we hope that can stir up some leads and urge those to come together and call us,” Hanson said. He also explained investigators forensically processed the shopping cart, with those samples and other items from the scene sent to the state crime lab.

Baker was a daughter, a sister and a mother of four, according to her family. Her sister and two brothers stood next to Hanson and held up Baker’s picture as he spoke. They didn't want to talk on camera but told News 12 they are desperate to learn what led to this.

“They want to know the answers on why and what happened,” Hanson said, speaking on their behalf. “That's why we really want to get to the bottom of this for everybody. Help us bring this family some closure, which they deserve.”

Anyone with information is asked to call the anonymous tips line at 203-576-TIPS (8477) or Detective Hanson at 203-581-5243.