Illinois Republican gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey and his wife, Cindy, are mourning the loss of their son, daughter-in-law and two grandchildren following a devastating helicopter crash in Montana.
The Bailey campaign confirmed Wednesday that Zachary Bailey, his wife Kelsey and their children, 12-year-old Vada Rose and 7-year-old Samuel, were killed in the accident.
Their 10-year-old son, Finn, was not on the aircraft and is reportedly safe.
In a statement shared on social media, the Baileys said they are leaning on their faith and the support of family and friends during this tragic time.
“The Baileys deeply appreciate the kindness and concern they have received and ask for privacy as they mourn this devastating loss,” the campaign said
The crash occurred in Carter County, near Montana’s borders with South Dakota and Wyoming.
Reports indicate Zachary Bailey was attending a helicopter convention and piloting the four-seater aircraft when the accident occurred.
Capitol News Illinois reports that the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has opened an investigation, though officials have not yet released a cause.
Bailey, a farmer and former state senator, is seeking the Republican nomination for Illinois governor in 2026 after narrowly losing to Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker in 2022.
During that election, he received a threatening voicemail from a Chicago man, 21-year-old Scott Lennox, who allegedly warned he would “mutilate and kill” Bailey.
Lennox was later charged with multiple felony counts related to the threat.
Pritzker expressed his condolences Thursday on social media, writing, “MK and I are devastated to learn of the passing of Darren and Cindy Bailey’s son Zachary, his wife Kelsey, and their two children, Vada Rose and Samuel. May their memories be a blessing.”
He later reiterated his sympathy at a news conference, saying, “I cannot imagine losing a child, losing two grandchildren, and what they must be going through.”
Illinois Republican Party Chair Kathy Salvi also issued a statement, urging the public to keep the Baileys in their thoughts. “Our prayers are with Darren and Cindy, and we join them in grieving the loss of their loved ones,” she said, according to OANN.
Following news of the crash, the Baileys reportedly began a nearly 19-hour drive to Montana to be with family.
Support has poured in from across Illinois and the country, reflecting widespread sympathy and solidarity for the grieving family.
The accident comes amid Bailey’s campaign to return to Springfield, adding the challenge of personal grief to the demands of public life.
Authorities stress that the NTSB investigation is ongoing, and additional information will be released as it becomes available.
Both Democratic and Republican leaders have acknowledged the tragedy, highlighting the human toll such events can have on individuals in public roles.
Commentators have stated that the incident is a poignant reminder of life’s fragility, showing that even those engaged in leadership and political service face profound personal challenges alongside professional responsibilities.
This tragedy also underscores the emotional burdens public figures carry, demonstrating that political ambition and personal grief often intersect.
While Bailey continues to pursue his political goals, the nation has taken notice of his family’s loss, reflecting a rare moment of unity and empathy across party lines.
The ongoing investigation will provide clarity in the weeks ahead, but the immediate focus remains on supporting the Bailey family as they mourn their loved ones.
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