SPRINGFIELD — Illinois gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey’s son, daughter-in-law and two grandchildren were killed in a helicopter crash in Montana on Wednesday, Bailey’s X campaign account confirmed.
Bailey’s son Zachary, his wife Kelsey and two of their children,12-year-old Vada Rose and 7-year-old Samuel, died in the crash.
Another of his grandson’s, Finn, 10, was not on the helicopter and was “safe,” the post confirmed.
“Darren and Cindy are heartbroken by this unimaginable loss,” the post added. “They are finding comfort in their faith, their family, and the prayers of so many who love and care for them. The Baileys deeply appreciate the kindness and support they have received and ask for privacy as they grieve and hold their loved ones close during this difficult time.”
Bailey, a former state senator and farmer from Xenia, in southern Illinois, lost the 2022 campaign against Gov. JB Pritzker. Bailey was bested in a close primary race in 2024 against U.S. Rep. Mike Bost for a congressional seat.
Bailey’s running mate this time around is Aaron DelMar.
Contact Steven Spearie: 217-622-1788; sspearie@sj-r.com; X, twitter.com/@StevenSpearie.
This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Darren Bailey’s son, daughter-in-law, two grandchildren killed in helicopter crash
Reporting by Steven Spearie, Springfield State Journal-Register / State Journal-Register
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
