The Illinois Republican gubernatorial candidate running to unseat Gov. JB Pritzker has endured a devastating personal tragedy. Former state Sen. Darren Bailey’s son, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren died in a helicopter crash in Montana.
A campaign statement confirmed the loss: “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.”
Bailey’s family described the grief as “unimaginable,” noting they find comfort in faith and support from loved ones. The statement requested privacy during their mourning.
Gov. Pritzker expressed condolences for the family, though the crash’s cause remains under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board. A separate incident in Montana involving a helicopter crash is being examined to determine if it is connected.
Bailey, who previously ran against Pritzker in 2022, faced a death threat during that campaign. A Chicago man was charged with threatening Bailey, including a voicemail alleging he would “mutilate and kill” the Republican candidate.
The investigation into the helicopter crash continues, with no official cause released.
