Tech CEO killed in Texas private jet crash

Joshua Baer, 50, founder and CEO of Capital Factory, was among two people killed when a private jet crashed on Texas State Highway Loop 20 after taking off from Los Cabos International Airport bound for Austin, around 10 p.m. Tuesday. Four others survived and were hospitalized. Capital Factory described Baer as a visionary leader who helped build Austin’s tech ecosystem, while colleagues and public figures paid tribute. Baer’s influence extended through his Baer Family Foundation, and he was widely regarded as a central figure in Texas startups. Tributes came from politicians including Senators Ted Cruz and John Cornyn, praising his entrepreneurial impact.