The crash occurred around 10 p.m. local time and involved a NetJets Cessna Latitude, with one fatality reported.

The fatal crash involved a business jet en route from Cabo San Lucas to Austin; investigators are examining flight data, maintenance records, and weather conditions.

A central figure in Austin’s tech scene, Baer helped seed the city’s startup ecosystem through Capital Factory, a key venture capital firm backing a range of tech companies.

Baer died in a crash on a highway near Laredo when a business jet carrying six people went down; authorities confirmed his death.

He was deeply involved in the community, delivering talks to students, serving as an early entrepreneur in residence at the University of Texas, and receiving a 2023 key to the city in recognition of his impact.

Initial reports indicated no serious ground injuries, though several officers were treated for smoke inhalation, and investigators have not yet determined the crash’s cause.

NetJets confirmed the plane involved was theirs and is cooperating with authorities as the FAA and NTSB conduct the investigation.

The FBI was not involved in the investigation; authorities are led by the FAA and NTSB with NetJets providing assistance to local law enforcement.

The crash occurred on Tuesday near Laredo, Texas, with condolences offered by U.S. Senators Ted Cruz and John Cornyn as the incident unfolds.

A vehicle was struck by the aircraft, one occupant was hospitalized in stable condition, and Loop 20 was briefly closed during the response.

Reporting from the Austin American-Statesman, via Investing.com, notes the incident and Baer’s death, with AI-assisted editing.

Five other passengers and crew, plus a motorist and five responding officers, were hospitalized after the crash.