Illinois Republican gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey faced unimaginable heartbreak after his son, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren died in a helicopter crash in Montana. The incident occurred late Wednesday night, leaving the campaign and community in shock.
Bailey’s campaign released a statement detailing the loss: “On Wednesday evening, Darren and his wife, Cindy, received the heartbreaking news no parent ever wants to hear. Their son, Zachary, his wife, Kelsey, and their two young children, Vada Rose, age 12, and Samuel, age 7, tragically lost their lives in a helicopter accident in Montana.” A third grandson, Finn, age 10, survived the crash and is safe.
The Baileys expressed gratitude for the support they have received but requested privacy during their grieving process. Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker extended his condolences to the family, calling the incident “unimaginable.”
Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash, with the National Transportation Safety Board confirming it is examining a helicopter accident in Ekalaka, Montana. It remains unclear if this is the same incident.
Bailey, a former state senator, has been vying to unseat Pritzker in the upcoming election. His campaign faced prior turmoil in 2022 when a death threat was made against him during his gubernatorial bid. A Chicago man was later charged with threatening Bailey, including a voicemail stating intentions to “mutilate and kill” the Republican candidate.
The tragic event has shifted focus from politics to the personal loss of a family, as friends and supporters rally behind the Baileys during this devastating time.