LDT “‘Unimaginable Loss’: Illinois Gubernatorial Candidate Darren Bailey Loses Four Family Members in Montana Helicopter Crash”
Illinois Republican gubernatorial hopeful Darren Bailey is facing a profound personal tragedy after losing four members of his family in a helicopter crash in eastern Montana on Wednesday. The victims included his son Zachary Bailey, daughter-in-law Kelsey Bailey, and their two children, 12-year-old Vada Rose and 7-year-old Samuel. Their 10-year-old son, Finn, was not on board and remains unharmed.
The accident occurred near Ekalaka, Montana, and is under active investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Officials have not yet released information regarding the cause of the crash, which took place in remote rangeland roughly five miles northwest of the town.
In a public statement, Bailey and his wife Cindy described the loss as “unimaginable” and asked for privacy as they cope with the tragedy. “Our hearts are broken,” the couple said. “This is an unimaginable loss, and we ask for the nation’s prayers during this difficult time.”
Political leaders from across Illinois expressed condolences. Governor JB Pritzker acknowledged the profound loss, while Illinois GOP Chair Kathy Salvi and Bailey’s running mate for 2026, Aaron Del Mar, offered their support to the grieving family.
Bailey, a former state senator and farmer from Xenia, Illinois, is campaigning for the 2026 gubernatorial election, following his 2022 bid against Governor Pritzker. This devastating incident has cast a somber shadow over the campaign, underscoring the personal challenges faced by public figures beyond the political arena.
Authorities continue to investigate the crash, and the Bailey family has requested privacy during this difficult period.
Sources: Verified reporting from Politico, People, and ABC News.
