Tech Executive Murdered in Baltimore, Police Launch Manhunt for Suspect

Baltimore Police are conducting a massive manhunt for a murder suspect described as willing to “do anything he can to cause harm” following the discovery of the lifeless body of a 26-year-old software development company founder in her Baltimore apartment.

Pava Marie LaPere was found deceased around 11:30 a.m. after authorities received a distress call. The preliminary cause of death has been determined to be blunt-force trauma.

During a news conference on Tuesday afternoon, law enforcement officials announced an arrest warrant for 32-year-old Jason Dean Billingsley, charging him with first-degree murder in connection with LaPere’s killing.

Billingsley is considered armed and extremely dangerous, and Acting Police Commissioner Richard Worley issued a stark warning to the public, stating, “This individual will kill, and he will rape. He will do anything he can to cause harm.”

According to authorities, Billingsley has a prior conviction for a violent crime, which included a sex offense. Originally sentenced to 30 years in prison for this previous crime, he was released on parole in October 2022.

Described as approximately 6’1″ tall and weighing between 200-215 pounds, Billingsley has medium brown skin, dark brown hair, brown eyes, and occasionally wears glasses.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott expressed frustration with repeat offenders, emphasizing the need for accountability in cases like this, stating, “The conviction should be the conviction, and we have to make sure that folks are held accountable in every single way because we are tired of talking about the same people committing the same kind of crimes over and over again.”

LaPere, the founder of EcoMap Technologies, was a well-known figure in the Baltimore area. Her company focused on improving information accessibility by mapping data and making it available on an accessible platform. Founded in 2018, EcoMap Technologies aimed to make a positive impact on the ecosystem through its work.

Frank LaPere, Pava’s father, expressed his grief in a post, describing her as an inspirational and dedicated individual. He noted that Pava’s impact extended beyond her professional endeavors, as she was cherished as a daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, cousin, and loyal friend.

EcoMap Technologies released a statement praising Pava’s contributions, describing her as a visionary force and compassionate leader. The company emphasized her relentless commitment to its mission and building an inclusive culture.

Before founding EcoMap, Pava LaPere established the nonprofit organization Innov8MD, which supported student entrepreneurs in Maryland. She held a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology from Johns Hopkins University in Maryland and pursued studies in entrepreneurship and management.

Johns Hopkins University expressed its condolences, remembering Pava LaPere as a beloved member of their community who had invested her talent in the city of Baltimore.

Pava LaPere was recognized by Forbes, earning a spot on their 2023 30 Under 30 list for social impact. The publication highlighted her accomplishments in raising over $4 million and leading a team of nearly 30 individuals, serving notable clients including The Aspen Institute, Meta, the WXR Fund, and T.Rowe Price Foundation.

In a recent post, Pava LaPere expressed her excitement about her company’s growth and thanked EcoMap’s customers, advisers, investors, and friends for their support.

The manhunt for Jason Dean Billingsley continues as Baltimore residents remain on high alert in the pursuit of justice for the tragic loss of Pava Marie LaPere.