Tech Executive Dies After Private Plane Crashes on Texas Highway

M. Tuesday. m.

Local time and was originally bound for Austin before diverting to Laredo, according to FlightRadar24 data. The airport tower reported the plane had a mechanical issue and lost contact before it struck the highway, hit a moving car, shut down traffic in both directions and scattered debris across multiple lanes. The plane burst into flames on impact and came to rest upside down.

Five crash survivors, one person from a passing car and five first responders treated for smoke inhalation were taken to a local hospital. Bryan Chambers, president of Capital Factory, said the firm was devastated by the loss but remained fully operational.

“While we are devastated by this unimaginable loss, Josh built an incredibly resilient organization and a deeply capable team,” Chambers stated.

“Capital Factory remains fully operational, and we are completely committed to continuing his mission of backing unstoppable founders,” he added. Sen. John Cornyn said Baer was an innovative leader in Austin’s entrepreneurial culture and a supporter of Central Texas’ military ecosystem.

Sen. Ted Cruz called Baer one of the most significant figures driving innovation and entrepreneurship across America and said his impact in Texas was incalculable. The FBI and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the cause of the crash.

Baer, 50, was a father of three and had founded the Baer Family Foundation with his wife Amy to support disadvantaged children.