Republican Gubernatorial Hopeful Darren Bailey Mourns Son, Daughter-in-Law, and Two Young Grandchildren After Devastating Montana Helicopter Crash
Illinois Republican gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey is facing unimaginable heartbreak after the devastating helicopter crash that claimed the lives of his son, daughter-in-law, and two of his young grandchildren. According to authorities and campaign officials, the tragic collision occurred late Wednesday night near Ekalaka, Montana, leaving a family and a political community in shock.
Bailey, 59, confirmed the heartbreaking news Thursday morning, identifying the victims as his son, Zachary Bailey; daughter-in-law, Kelsey Bailey; and their two children, Vada Rose and Samuel. Their middle child, 10-year-old Finn, was not on board and remains safe with relatives. “Darren and Cindy are heartbroken by this unimaginable loss,” a statement from the Bailey campaign read. “They are finding comfort in their faith, their family, and the prayers of so many who love and care for them.”
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation into the cause of the crash. Officials have not yet determined what led to the fatal accident but confirmed that weather and visibility conditions in the region were challenging at the time.
Bailey, a longtime farmer, state senator, and former Illinois gubernatorial candidate, rose to prominence as a conservative voice advocating for traditional family values, faith, and rural America. He ran against Governor J.B. Pritzker in the 2022 gubernatorial race and was preparing for another run in 2026. Known for his outspoken style and deep faith, Bailey has long described his family as “the heart of everything I fight for.”
Condolences poured in from across the political spectrum. Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker released a statement saying, “I cannot imagine losing a child and two grandchildren. The entire state of Illinois grieves alongside the Bailey family tonight.” Republican Party leaders also offered prayers and solidarity, emphasizing how deeply respected Bailey and his family are across Illinois communities.
The Baileys’ small-town faith and humility have made them beloved figures in Clay County, where they operate a large family farm. Friends described Zachary and Kelsey as “dedicated parents and pillars of their community,” often seen volunteering in church activities and supporting local families. Their loss has sent ripples of sorrow through the region, as neighbors and friends gather to provide support and prayer vigils in their honor.
The crash has drawn national attention not only because of Bailey’s political standing but because of the deeply personal nature of the tragedy. Supporters have flooded Bailey’s social media pages with words of comfort, urging the family to “hold strong to faith.” The campaign has since suspended all political activity indefinitely, allowing the family to grieve privately.
Local officials in Montana confirmed that emergency crews reached the crash site shortly after the helicopter went down, but all four passengers were pronounced dead at the scene. The aircraft, believed to be privately chartered, was reportedly en route to a family gathering when it lost communication with air traffic control.
For Darren and Cindy Bailey, this loss transcends politics. It is the kind of pain no parent should ever endure — a sudden, cruel reminder of life’s fragility. As the investigation continues, the Baileys are surrounded by faith, family, and an outpouring of public sympathy. Their campaign has requested privacy and prayers in this time of mourning.
