The tragic death of Angela Chao, a prominent figure in the shipping industry and sister-in-law to Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, has left many stunned and mourning her loss. According to a report from The Wall Street Journal, Chao died on a Texas ranch after her car went into a pond and became submerged in water for an extended period of time.
The 50-year-old CEO of the Foremost Group passed away on Feb. 11 in the Texas Hill Country, but details surrounding her death have remained scarce. Authorities in Blanco County have not released additional information, citing an ongoing investigation into the incident.
According to The Wall Street Journal, rescue workers arrived at the scene and attempted to save Chao, but a dive team was not available. Emergency responders used tools to break the window of her Tesla vehicle and eventually pulled her from the water. Despite their efforts to resuscitate her, Chao was found unresponsive.
Angela Chao was not only a successful businesswoman but also the president of her father’s philanthropic organization, the Foremost Foundation. Her untimely passing has undoubtedly left a void in both her family and the Asian-American community.
Her sister, Elaine Chao, who is married to Mitch McConnell, served as transportation secretary under President Donald Trump and labor secretary under President George W. Bush. McConnell himself acknowledged the tragic loss of his sister-in-law when he announced his decision to step down as the Senate Republican leader last month.
James S.C. Chao, Angela’s father, expressed the family’s grief in a statement following her death, saying, “her absence leaves a void not only in our hearts, but in the Asian-American community.”
The circumstances surrounding Angela Chao’s death are truly heartbreaking, and our thoughts and condolences go out to her loved ones during this difficult time. As the investigation continues, we hope that more information will provide some closure for those mourning her loss.