U.S. Rep. Jim Baird’s wife dies due to injuries from car crash

INDIANAPOLIS — The Office of U.S. Rep. Jim Baird, R-Ind. District 4 has announced on social media that his wife, Danise, has died. According to Baird's office, she suffered complications stemming from injuries she received during a car crash, the couple was involved in early January, where their vehicle was “struck in an accident.” Following the crash. Baird himself spent less than 24 hours in the hospital, while Danise had to spend additional time recovering. Numerous state and federal leaders have shown their support for the Baird family. In a post on social media, Indiana Gov. Mike Braun wrote: "Our thoughts and prayers are with Congressman Baird and his family as they grieve this devastating loss." U.S. Senator Todd Young, R-Ind, also posted to social media, writing: In a speech at the House GOP Member Retreat soon after the crash, President Donald Trump mentioned the crash, stating he was sending his “best wishes” to Baird and his wife. “They’re going to be OK,” Trump said, “but they had a pretty bad accident, and we’re praying that they get out of that hospital very quickly. He’s going to be fine. She’s going to be fine, but it was a bad accident.” Beau Baird, the son of Baird, confirmed that the crash occurred while Baird was driving back to Washington, D.C. He said at the time that, because the crash was a hit-and-run, law enforcement was actively investigating and searching for the vehicle that struck them. As of the time of this article's publication, there are no further updates regarding how the crash occurred or whether the investigation is still active. Baird's office wrote, "Congressman Baird and Danise were married for 59 years, building a life centered on faith, family, and service. A devoted wife and loving mother of three, she was the foundation of their family and will be deeply missed. We ask that you keep the Congressman and his family in your prayers during this difficult time."