By Illinois Review
Republican gubernatorial candidate and former Illinois State Senator Darren Bailey is mourning an unimaginable loss after a helicopter crash in Montana claimed the lives of his son, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren.
According to a statement from the Bailey/Del Mar campaign, the tragedy occurred Wednesday evening. Bailey’s son, Zachary, his wife, Kelsey, and their two children – 12-year-old Vada Rose and 7-year-old Samuel – were on board the helicopter when it went down. All four were killed in the crash.
Their 10-year-old son, Finn, was not on the flight and is safe, the campaign confirmed.
“Darren and Cindy are heartbroken by this unimaginable loss,” the statement read. “They are finding comfort in their faith, their family, and the prayers of so many who love and care for them.”
Bailey, the 2022 Republican nominee for governor and current GOP candidate for 2026, is known for his strong Christian faith and commitment to family values. The campaign has asked the public to keep the Bailey family in their prayers as they grieve this devastating loss.
