CEO Pava LaPere murder: Citywide manhunt underway as police issue grave warning

New Delhi: The shocking murder of Pava LaPere, a 26-year-old CEO and Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, has sent shockwaves through the tech community. As the investigation unfolds, authorities are on a relentless hunt for the prime suspect, Jason Billingsley, who remains at large. Police have issued a chilling warning that Billingsley is armed, dangerous, and poses a serious threat to the public.

Who was CEO Pava LaPere?

LaPere, a graduate of John Hopkins University, served as the CEO of EcoMap, a company based in Baltimore. Ten months ago, Pava LaPere achieved recognition as one of Forbes’ 30 Under 30 in the Social Impact category. She enthusiastically shared her inclusion in this prestigious list on LinkedIn, expressing her commitment to addressing global challenges through innovative solutions.

CEO Pava LaPere was found dead

Her life was tragically cut short when police responded to a distress call at her residence in Mount Vernon, Baltimore, around 11:30 am on September 25. Upon arrival, they discovered LaPere with severe blunt-force trauma injuries.

Authorities have focused their attention on Jason Billingsley, a 32-year-old with a criminal history, as a prime suspect in this heinous crime. Billingsley is still evading law enforcement, prompting a citywide manhunt. Acting Baltimore Police Department Commissioner Richard Worley revealed that Billingsley is not only a murder suspect but is also linked to at least one other ongoing investigation in Baltimore.

Billingsley faces charges of first-degree murder, assault, reckless endangerment, and additional offenses. His prior arrests in 2013, 2011, and 2009 involved various charges, including sexual offenses, second-degree assault, and robbery, according to Baltimore Police records.

Acting Baltimore Police Commissioner Worley issued a stark warning to residents, urging them to exercise vigilance. He emphasized that the suspect, Billingsley, is a severe threat, capable of extreme violence and harm.

Pava LaPere was a trailblazing entrepreneur who founded her eco-focused company while still in her Johns Hopkins University dorm room. EcoMap’s mission was to make critical ecosystem information accessible to a broader audience, utilizing advanced technology for ecosystem digitization. In the span of just 18 months, Pava successfully secured $7 million in funding for her company.

EcoMap released a heartfelt statement following the tragic loss of their CEO, expressing their deep condolences to her family, friends, and loved ones. They described Pava LaPere as not only the visionary leader of EcoMap but also a compassionate and dedicated figure who tirelessly advocated for their company, Baltimore, and the vital work of ecosystems nationwide. Her legacy will endure through the continued efforts of EcoMap.

As the search for the suspect intensifies, the community mourns the loss of a talented young leader and awaits justice for Pava LaPere.