Four family members of GOP Illinois gubernatorial candidate die in Montana helicopter crash

Four family members of GOP Illinois gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey died in a Montana helicopter crash, his campaign said Thursday.

Bailey, a former state senator, lost his son, Zachary, daughter-in-law, Kelsey, and two of their three children, Vada Rose, 12, and Samuel, 7, in the crash on Wednesday, The Associated Press reported, citing the campaign's statement. The couple’s third child was not on the helicopter.

“Darren and Cindy are heartbroken by this unimaginable loss. They are finding comfort in their faith, their family, and the prayers of so many who love and care for them,” the campaign statement said.

On Thursday, the National Transportation Safety Board said that it was investigating a helicopter crash in eastern Montana near the town of Ekalaka, and the Carter County sheriff’s office said the helicopter went down southwest of the town early Wednesday evening.

Illinois GOP Chairwoman Kathy Salvi said in a statement that the party is grieving the tragic loss.

“Please join us in keeping the Bailey family in our thoughts and prayers during this unimaginable time,” she said.

Bailey is seeking the GOP’s nominee for governor in the 2026 election after losing to Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker in 2022, following single, two-year terms in both the Illinois House and Senate.