Illinois Governor Candidate Darren Bailey Breaks Silence After Helicopter Crash That Claimed His Son, Daughter-in-Law, and Grandchildren
Former Illinois state senator and 2026 gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey has spoken publicly for the first time since the devastating helicopter crash that claimed the lives of four members of his family — his son Zachary Bailey, daughter-in-law Natalie, and their two young children. The tragic accident, which occurred on October 22, has left a deep scar on the Bailey family and the small community that knew them well.
In a heartfelt post shared on X (formerly Twitter) on October 29, Darren Bailey expressed his grief and gratitude, sharing a photo of his late son and his family alongside a message that captured both the pain and faith guiding him through the loss. “There are no words to describe the heartbreak our family feels,” he wrote. “Zach, Natalie, and the kids brought so much joy and light into our lives. We are comforted knowing they are together and resting in the arms of our Savior.”
The helicopter, a privately owned Bell 429, reportedly went down in a rural area of Johnson County, Illinois, while returning from a family gathering. According to preliminary reports from the Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board, weather conditions were clear at the time of the crash, and investigators continue to examine the cause. Local emergency crews responded to the scene shortly after receiving distress calls but found no survivors.
For Darren Bailey, who rose to statewide prominence during his 2022 campaign for governor and remained active in Illinois politics, the tragedy has turned his focus inward. Friends and supporters across the state have shared messages of love and condolence, describing the Baileys as a family rooted in faith, humility, and service to their community. Zachary, remembered as a devoted husband and father, was deeply involved in his family’s farming operations and church activities.
In his statement, Bailey thanked the public for their outpouring of kindness. “We’ve been overwhelmed by the prayers and support from people across Illinois and beyond,” he said. “Our family has always believed in faith over fear, and while this pain is unimaginable, we trust in God’s plan even in our darkest moments.”
Natalie Bailey, Zachary’s wife, was remembered by family friends as a compassionate mother and a woman of deep faith. “She was the kind of person who always made you feel seen,” one family friend shared. “She loved her children fiercely and supported her husband in everything he did.” The couple’s two children, both under the age of ten, were known in their community for their bright smiles and joyful energy.
Governor J.B. Pritzker and several state lawmakers issued public condolences, setting aside political differences to express solidarity with Bailey and his loved ones. “Our hearts go out to Darren Bailey and his family,” Governor Pritzker wrote. “This is a loss no parent should ever have to endure.”
Since the tragedy, friends and supporters have gathered for memorial services and prayer vigils across southern Illinois. Local residents have set up donation drives to assist the family with memorial costs and community projects in memory of Zachary and Natalie. For many who knew them, the Baileys represented the best of small-town family values — hard work, faith, and compassion.
As investigations continue, Darren Bailey remains focused on honoring his family’s legacy. His message to supporters closed with a reflection of hope: “Hold your loved ones close. Don’t take a single day for granted. Life is precious, and love is the only thing that endures.”
Even amid unimaginable grief, Bailey’s words echo the strength and resilience he’s long been known for — a quiet reminder that family, faith, and community remain at the heart of everything that truly matters.
