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Four family members of Illinois gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey died in a tragic helicopter crash in Montana on Wednesday (October 22). Bailey's campaign confirmed the deaths of his son, Zachary, daughter-in-law, Kelsey, and their two children, Vada Rose, 12, and Samuel, seven. The couple's third child, a 10-year-old son named Finn, was not on the helicopter.
The Bailey family expressed their profound grief in a statement, saying they are "heartbroken by this unimaginable loss" and are seeking comfort in their faith and the support of family and friends. They also requested privacy during this difficult time.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the cause of the crash or the specific location in Montana where it occurred. Information about the type of helicopter involved has also not been released.
Darren Bailey, a former Illinois state senator, is running for governor of Illinois in the 2026 election. He previously ran for the position in 2022 but lost to the incumbent, JB Pritzker, in a highly publicized race. Bailey, who has served in both the Illinois House of Representatives and Senate, is campaigning on a conservative platform, focusing on issues such as gun rights and opposition to abortion.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker expressed his condolences, stating, "Our prayers and deep condolences are with the Baileys in this time of grief."