Ex-Senator Loses Son, Daughter-in-Law, And Grandchildren In Helicopter Crash

Heartbreak has struck the family of former Illinois state senator and 2026 gubernatorial hopeful, Darren Bailey, after four of his family members: his son, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren were killed in a helicopter crash in Montana on Wednesday, October 22.

Bailey’s campaign confirmed the devastating news in a statement on Thursday, October 23, revealing that his son, Zachary, his wife, Kelsey, and their two young children, 12-year-old Vada Rose and 7-year-old Samuel, all died in the tragic incident.

The couple’s 10-year-old son, Finn, survived — he was not on board the ill-fated aircraft.

“On Wednesday evening, Darren and his wife, Cindy, received the heartbreaking news no parent ever wants to hear,” the statement read. “Their son, Zachary, his wife, Kelsey, and their two young children, Vada Rose and Samuel, tragically lost their lives in a helicopter accident in Montana.”

The campaign added that the Baileys are “heartbroken by this unimaginable loss” but are “finding comfort in their faith, their family, and the prayers of so many who love and care for them.”

The family also expressed gratitude to supporters for their outpouring of love and requested privacy as they grieve and hold their loved ones close during this difficult time.

Authorities are still investigating the cause of the crash and have not disclosed further details about where in Montana the incident occurred.

Bailey, 59, is currently seeking the Republican nomination in the 2026 Illinois gubernatorial race; his second bid for the state’s top job. He previously ran against Democratic Governor JB Pritzker in 2022 in one of the most expensive gubernatorial contests in U.S. history but lost by a wide margin.

Before his first gubernatorial run, Bailey served as a state senator and previously as a member of the Illinois House of Representatives.
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