Darren Bailey’s Son, Grandchildren Among Those Deceased In Tragic Helicopter Crash

Illinois gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey’s son, daughter-in-law and two young grandchildren perished Wednesday in a helicopter crash in Montana.

The tragic news was shared Thursday on X by in a statement from the Darren Bailey / Aaron Del Mar Campaign.

“On Wednesday evening, Darren and his wife, Cindy, received the heartbreaking news no parent ever wants to hear. Their son, Zachary, his wife, Kelsey, and their two young children, Vada Rose, age 12, and Samuel, age 7, tragically lost their lives in a helicopter accident in Montana,” the statement read.

“Their other grandson, Finn, age 10, was not on the helicopter and is safe.”

Statement from the Darren Bailey / Aaron Del Mar Campaign

On Wednesday evening, Darren and his wife, Cindy, received the heartbreaking news no parent ever wants to hear. Their son, Zachary, his wife, Kelsey, and their two young children, Vada Rose, age 12, and Samuel, age 7,… pic.twitter.com/AKKhumqHzs

— Darren Bailey (@DarrenBaileyIL) October 23, 2025

Concerned friends and members of the public immediately flooded the comment section, sharing words of comfort for the grieving family.

“Darren and Cindy are heartbroken by this unimaginable loss,” the statement continued.

“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,” the statement read.

The Montana Highway Patrol reported the crash happened in Carter County, which is located in the southeast corner of the state, bordering South Dakota and Wyoming, according to WGN-TV.

Bailey is running for governor of Illinois as a Republican in the 2026 election. He previously ran for governor in 2022, but he lost to Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker. (RELATED: Video Of Gene Simmons’ Car Crash Shows Terrifying Close Call)

Bailey formerly served in both houses of the Illinois state legislature, representing part of southern Illinois.