Baltimore man arrested for allegedly killing tech CEO Pava LaPere, starting fire that injured 3

BALTIMORE (TCD) -- U.S. Marshals apprehended a man they allege killed tech CEO and entrepreneur Pava LaPere and started a fire in another part of the city in what police called a targeted attack.

In a news conference Thursday, Sept. 28, Acting Baltimore Police Commissioner Richard Worley announced 32-year-old Jason Billingsley was taken into custody without incident following a manhunt in connection with LaPere’s death, as well as an arson and rape that occurred last week.

According to WBAL-TV, on Tuesday, Sept. 19, at approximately 9:30 a.m., Baltimore Fire Department officials responded to the 800 block of Edmonson Avenue and found a fire in the basement of a home. Two 26-year-olds reportedly sustained burns and other injuries, while a 5-year-old was injured due to smoke inhalation. All three victims were taken to a local hospital for treatment.

One neighbor told WJZ-TV the male victim "had handcuffs, and his leg was bleeding, and his feet were taped."

Worley said at the press conference Billingsley allegedly "went to the location for a criminal reason," adding, "He was there for a reason. We think he committed a targeted act."

Police issued a warrant for his arrest after the arson and identified him as a suspect in LaPere’s killing. A press conference the other day got delayed because officials were "within about 88 meters of capturing the suspect, but he was able to elude capture."

Officials also do not believe Billingsley forced entry into LaPere’s building. She was found dead in her apartment Sept. 25 with blunt force trauma injuries. Worley believes LaPere was most likely killed Friday, Sept. 22, and her family reported her missing the same day officials discovered her body.

LaPere co-founded a startup called EcoMap Technologies and was featured on Forbes’ 2023 30 Under 30 list.

At a news briefing Sept. 26, Worley said Billingsley "will kill and he will rape. He will do anything to cause harm."

Billingsley has a previous criminal past. WJZ reports he was sentenced in 2011 to two years in prison for second-degree assault. He pleaded guilty two years prior to first-degree assault. Then, following his release, he was charged with rape and convicted. A judge sentenced him to 30 years in prison with all but 14 years suspended. He was released on parole in October 2022.

Baltimore State’s Attorney Ivan Bates spoke at the Sept. 28 press conference and said his office will file for life without the possibility of parole if Billingsley is convicted.

He added, "Our hope and goal is that if this individual is found guilty in a court of law, this individual will never get out to see the light of day or hurt any of our fine citizens."

MORE:

• Police are giving an update on the arrest of Jason Billingsley - Baltimore Police Department via WJZ
• Two adults, child hospitalized after alleged arson in west Baltimore - WBAL
• Baltimore police announce suspect in CEO killing - Baltimore Police Department via WBAL
• Suspect Jason Billingsley arrested in murder of Baltimore tech CEO Pava LaPere - WJZ
• Arson investigation launched after man, woman suffer 'critical' injuries from West Baltimore fire - WJZ
• 'Beloved' tech CEO found dead in her Baltimore apartment from blunt force trauma - TCD
• Central District Homicide Investigation - Baltimore Police Department