Danise Baird, the wife of Rep. Jim Baird, R-I.N., died Sunday morning from complications from a hit-and-run car crash 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,” the congressman’s office posted on X Sunday. “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.”
The couple was driving to Washington, D.C. when their vehicle was struck on the night of January 5. Rep. Baird, 80, was released from the hospital within 24 hours. Danise’s injuries were far more severe. Their son, Indiana State Rep. Beau Baird, said at the time that his mother had suffered “nearly 15 breaks and fractures.” She was discharged from the hospital by January 12 but never fully recovered. On February 1, Beau Baird posted that his mother had taken her first assisted steps, adding that “we know there’s still a road ahead.” On Sunday morning, he posted only: “3/1/26 6:31:10 am”
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,…
— Congressman Jim Baird (@RepJimBaird) March 1, 2026
President Donald Trump mentioned the crash during a speech at the House GOP Member Retreat shortly after it occurred. “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.”
Danise was Jim Baird’s high school sweetheart, according to his congressional biography. Rep. Baird, a decorated Army veteran who lost an arm during the Vietnam War, was first elected to represent Indiana’s 4th Congressional District in 2018 and won his fourth term in November 2024.
Condolences poured in from both sides of the aisle. Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., said Danise was often by her husband’s side as he served in Congress.
“They are salt of the earth people and Jim and his family have sacrificed so much for our country,” Stefanik wrote.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Congressman Baird and his family as they grieve this devastating loss,” Indiana Gov. Mike Braun said.