Breaking: Mysterious Death of Brilliant 26-Year-Old Tech CEO Shakes Baltimore
26-year-old tech CEO, Pava LaPere, tragically found dead in downtown Baltimore apartment Shocking signs of blunt-force trauma to her head Baltimore Police Department launches a manhunt for the suspect Heartbreaking news for the startup community
A suspect wanted for the murder of Pava LaPere, the 26-year-old CEO of startup EcoMap Technologies, has been identified by the Baltimore Police Department. Pava was found dead in a downtown Baltimore apartment on Monday, with evidence of blunt-force trauma to her head. Acting Police Commissioner Richard Worley has announced an arrest warrant for Jason Dean Billingsley, 32, and the police are actively seeking him.
Police officers were called to an apartment complex on West Franklin Street around 11:34 a.m. on Monday, as reported by the Baltimore Police. Upon arrival, they discovered severe head injuries on LaPere. No additional details regarding her death have been disclosed by the police.
According to the police, the body has been taken into custody by the medical examiners office, and an examination is currently awaiting.
Billingsley is wanted for first-degree murder, assault, and reckless endangerment, along with other charges. Police have advised that he should be regarded as armed and dangerous.
The Baltimore Police have stated that they have no reason to believe that LaPere and Billingsley were acquainted.
The police did not disclose their method of identifying Billingsley as a suspect.
Worley sent a message to Billingsley, urging him to surrender. "We will locate you, therefore I implore you to turn yourself in to any officer or police station," he stated.
A startup founder with ties to Baltimore
According to EcoMaps website, EcoMap was founded by LaPere and Sherrod Davis while LaPere was a 21-year-old college student at Johns Hopkins. The company, which has just over 30 employees, is part of the artificial intelligence wave. It specializes in selling AI tools, such as a customizable chatbot, that aim to improve the accessibility of client information and make customer communications more seamless.
EcoMap confirmed to CNN the passing of Pava LaPere, the beloved Founder and CEO. In a statement, EcoMap expressed profound sadness and shock, acknowledging the tragic and untimely nature of the loss. The circumstances surrounding Pava's death are distressing, and EcoMap extends their deepest condolences to her family, friends, and loved ones during this devastating time.
In August, the company said it had reached nearly $8 million in financing.
Earlier this year, LaPere was named on the Forbes 30 under 30 list in the social impact category.
Pava’s role extended beyond being the driving force behind EcoMap - she embodied compassion and unwavering dedication. She demonstrated an unwavering commitment to our company, to Baltimore, to championing the vital work of ecosystems nationwide, and to fostering inclusivity as a leader, friend, and partner. Her leadership set a standard, and her legacy will thrive through our ongoing endeavors,” the company expressed.
Delali Dzirasa, CEO of Fearless (a Baltimore-based company), served as a mentor to LaPere and remembers her as a resolute leader who garnered immense respect within the community.
"There is no person on planet Earth that could tell Pava that she couldnt do something," Dzirasa said. "Even though she was a force, she always made space for other people," he told CNN.
