Danise Baird, wife of Indiana’s 4th District Congressman Jim Baird, has died from complications related to injuries she sustained in a hit-and-run car crash in January, according to a statement released Sunday by the congressman’s office.
The office said Danise succumbed to those injuries following the crash involving the Bairds’ vehicle on January 5.
“The Office of Congressman Jim Baird is saddened to announce the passing of his beloved wife, Danise, following complications from injuries sustained in a car accident earlier this year.
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.”
State Rep. Beau Baird, son of Congressman and Mrs. Baird, told Hoosier Ag Today that his mother was driving the vehicle when they were struck by another vehicle that drove away. Police are continuing to investigate, and have not identified the driver of the other vehicle who fled the scene.
Congressman Baird, 80, suffered minor injuries and was released within 24 hours of the crash. Mrs. Baird received broken bones and was hospitalized until Jan. 12.
Congressman Baird, who lives in Greencastle, serves as Vice Chair of the House Committee on Agriculture. He has served in Congress since 2019.
Beau Baird issued the following post on Facebook recognizing the exact time of his mother’s passing on Sunday morning:
Danise was Jim Baird’s “high school sweetheart,” according to the biography on his congressional office website. The couple had three children.
