March 2 (UPI) — Danise Baird, the wife of Republican Rep. Jim Baird, has died from complications of injuries she sustained in an early January car crash, according to a statement from the Indiana congressman’s office.
Jim and Danise Baird were involved in a car crash on Jan. 5, hospitalizing both of them.
Little information about the incident has been made public. According to a social media statement published by their son Beau Baird in mid-January, they were involved in a hit-and-run on the night of Jan. 5. He added that his mother suffered “nearly 15 breaks and fractures.”
Less than two weeks after the crash, Jim Baird, who is 80, announced that he and his wife had been discharged and were recovering.
On Sunday, his office announced that Danise Baird had died.
“A devoted wife and loving mother of three, she was the foundation of their family and will be deeply missed,” the statement said.
“We ask that you keep the congressman and his family in your prayers during this difficult time.”
Jim and Danise Baird were married for 59 years, according to his office, which said they had built “a life centered on faith, family and service.”
Indiana Gov. Mike Braun offered his condolences online.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with congressman Baird and his family as they grieve this devastating loss,” he said in a statement.
Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., recalled seeing Danise Baird by her husband’s side as he worked in Congress.
“They are salt of the earth people and Jim and his family have sacrificed so much for our country,” she said. “Jim and his family are in our hearts and prayers during this difficult time.”
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American singer/pianist Neil Sedaka performs at the “BBC Proms In The Park” in Hyde Park in London on September 11, 2010. Photo by Rune Hellestad/UPI | License Photo