The investigation into the death of Angela Chao, 50, CEO of Foremost Group, is being treated as a criminal case by the Blanco County Sheriff’s Office in Texas. Chao was found deceased after her vehicle was discovered submerged in a pond on a ranch near Johnson City, about 40 miles from Austin, on February 11; paramedics attempted resuscitation for 43 minutes. Initially considered an accident, the case’s status shifted for reasons unknown, leading to a more thorough criminal investigation. The ranch is linked to Chao’s husband, Jim Breyer, a venture capitalist with significant business in the area.
Angela Chao was the sister of Elaine Chao, the wife of Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. Elaine Chao has served as U.S. Secretary of Transportation and Labor, underlining the case’s high-profile nature. The ongoing investigation has prompted the sheriff’s office to withhold releasing details, including 911 calls and video evidence, to avoid jeopardizing potential legal proceedings.
Foremost Group, a leading dry bulk shipping company, was founded by Chao’s parents, and Angela Chao took the helm in 2018. Her academic and professional accolades include a distinguished career, with roles on various boards, including the Bank of China and the China State Shipbuilding Corporation.
The circumstances surrounding Angela Chao’s death remain under investigation, with authorities and family members awaiting conclusive findings.
