CARTER COUNTY, Mont. (FN) — Illinois Republican gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey is mourning the deaths of his son, daughter-in-law and two grandchildren following a helicopter crash in southeastern Montana.
Bailey, 59, confirmed Thursday that his son, Zachary Bailey; Zachary’s wife, Kelsey; and two of their children, Vada Rose, 12, and Samuel, 7, were killed in the crash late Wednesday. A third grandchild, Finn, 10, was not aboard the aircraft.
The crash occurred near the borders of Montana, South Dakota and Wyoming. The National Transportation Safety Board and local authorities are investigating the cause.
“Darren and Cindy are heartbroken by this unimaginable loss,” Bailey’s campaign said in a statement. “They are finding comfort in their faith, their family, and the prayers of so many who love and care for them.”
Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker offered condolences Thursday.
“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,” Pritzker said, 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.”
Emergency responders from Carter County and federal aviation officials arrived at the crash site shortly after the incident. No additional injuries were reported.
Bailey, a former state senator, was the Republican nominee for governor in 2022 and is running again in the 2026 election.
Community members and faith leaders across Illinois expressed support for the Bailey family, with many sharing messages of sympathy on social media and at local gatherings.
Funeral arrangements have not been announced.
