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Family members of a Republican gubernatorial candidate tragically passed away in a helicopter crash in Montana on Wednesday evening.
Darren Bailey, who is running for Governor of Illinois, said his son, daughter-in-law, and their two young children died in the crash.
“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. Their other grandson, Finn, age 10, was not on the helicopter and is safe,” a statement from Bailey’s campaign read.
“Darren and Cindy are heartbroken by this unimaginable loss. They are finding comfort in their faith, their family, and the prayers of so many who love and care for them. The Baileys deeply appreciate the kindness and support they have received and ask for privacy as they grieve and hold their loved ones close during this difficult time,” the statement continued.
Statement from the Darren Bailey / Aaron Del Mar Campaign
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,… pic.twitter.com/AKKhumqHzs
— Darren Bailey (@DarrenBaileyIL) October 23, 2025
More from Newsweek:
Bailey and his wife have four married children and 13 grandchildren, according to the campaign website.
TJ Brown of the Northfield Township Republican Organization in Illinois said in a post on X: “This is terrible news. Prayers to the Bailey family.”
The X account for Vernon Township Republicans wrote: “We are heartbroken for the Bailey family – please keep them in your prayers.”
Bailey, a Christian conservative, previously served a single term in both the Illinois Senate and House.
Republican gubernatorial hopeful Darren Bailey mourns son, daughter-in-law, two grandchildren after Montana helicopter crash https://t.co/rv1oFoeeLf pic.twitter.com/BYfYpuyR9J
— New York Post (@nypost) October 23, 2025
The crash is under investigation.
“The NTSB is investigating the crash Wednesday of a Robinson Helicopters R66 in Ekalaka, Montana,” the NTSB said on Thursday.
The NTSB is investigating the crash Wednesday of a Robinson Helicopters R66 in Ekalaka, Montana.
— NTSB Newsroom (@NTSB_Newsroom) October 23, 2025
The New York Post shared additional details:
Bailey, a former Illinois state senator, was the GOP nominee against incumbent Gov. JB Pritzker in 2022.
He is running again, with the next election in 2026.
Pritzker sent his condolences.
“MK and I are devastated to learn of the tragic passing of Darren and Cindy Bailey’s son Zachary, daughter-in-law Kelsey, and their two young children Vada Rose and Samuel,” the governor said in a statement, referring to his wife.
“Our prayers and deep condolences are with the Baileys in this time of grief. May the memories of their loved ones be a blessing.”