Illinois candidate’s grandchildren among family killed in helicopter crash
Four family members of Illinois gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey died in a helicopter crash, the campaign announced.
Bailey’s son, Zachary, his wife, Kelsey, and two of their children were killed in Wednesday’s crash in Ekalaka, Montana.
The candidate named his two deceased grandchildren Vada Rose, 12, and Samuel, seven. The couple is survived by their third child, a 10-year-old boy, who was not on the plane.
Bailey and his wife, Cindy, are “heartbroken by this unimaginable loss” and ask for “privacy as they grieve and keep their loved ones close during this difficult time,” the campaign says.
“They find comfort in their faith, in their family and in the prayers of so many people who love and care for them,” the statement added.
Bailey, a grain farmer, is running as a Republican for governor of Illinois and the election will be held next year.
He previously ran for governor in 2022, losing to Democrat JB Pritzker in a race that drew attention to tens of millions of dollars in donations and spending by both sides.
Bailey appeared at a campaign rally with Donald Trump in June of that year and received his support.
His 2024 campaign for the U.S. House of Representatives also failed.
Bailey previously served in both houses of the Illinois State Legislature, representing parts of southern Illinois.
Pritzker said he and his wife were “devastated” by the news of Bailey’s loss.
“Our prayers and sincere condolences are with the Baileys during this time of mourning,” he wrote in a statement on X.
“May the memories of their loved ones be a blessing.”
