Illinois GOP Governor Candidate Darren Bailey Faces Unimaginable Tragedy as Four Family Members Die in Montana Helicopter Crash

In a devastating turn of events, Darren Bailey, the Republican candidate for governor of Illinois, is mourning the loss of four close family members following a tragic helicopter crash in southeastern Montana on the evening of October 22, 2025.

The crash claimed the lives of Bailey’s son, Zachary; his daughter-in-law, Kelsey; and their two children, 12-year-old Vada Rose and 7-year-old Samuel.

The Bailey family had been in Montana attending a farming convention when the accident occurred.

Zachary Bailey, 37, was piloting the Robinson R66 helicopter, a turbine-powered aircraft registered under the tail number N67GA.

The helicopter was owned by Bailey Aviation Management LLC, a company operated by the Bailey family.

Tragically, all four occupants perished in the crash.

The youngest child, 10-year-old Finn, was not aboard the helicopter at the time of the accident and is currently safe with family friends.

The crash site was located approximately five miles northwest of Ekalaka, a small town in Carter County, Montana.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has initiated an investigation into the cause of the crash.

Preliminary reports indicate that the helicopter was en route to a remote ranching area when the accident occurred.

The NTSB has not yet released further details regarding the crash’s cause.

Darren Bailey, 59, is a former state senator and the 2022 Republican nominee for governor of Illinois.

He is currently campaigning for the 2026 gubernatorial election.

Bailey, known for his conservative stances on issues such as gun rights, law enforcement, and opposition to abortion, has expressed his profound grief over the loss of his family members.

In a statement released by his campaign, Bailey described the tragedy as “a loss beyond words” and requested privacy as he and his wife, Cindy, navigate this unimaginable sorrow.

Aaron Del Mar, Bailey’s running mate for the 2026 election and chair of the Cook County Republican Party, addressed the media, expressing his condolences and emphasizing the importance of supporting the Bailey family during this difficult time.

Del Mar described Zachary as a dedicated father and community member, noting his involvement in humanitarian efforts and his commitment to his family and faith.

The Bailey family is deeply rooted in their community in Xenia, Illinois, where they operate a family farm and run a private Christian school.

They are also involved in a nutrition company that serves the local community.

The family’s strong ties to their faith and community have been a cornerstone of their lives, and they are now drawing strength from these foundations as they grieve their loss.

Political leaders from both parties have extended their condolences to the Bailey family.

Illinois Governor J.B.Pritzker, a Democrat, offered his sympathies, stating that his thoughts and prayers are with the Bailey family during this tragic time.

Kathy Salvi, chair of the Illinois Republican Party, also expressed her condolences, calling the loss “heartbreaking” and urging the community to support the Bailey family.

As the NTSB continues its investigation into the cause of the crash, the Bailey family has requested privacy to mourn their loss.

The community has rallied around them, offering support and condolences as they navigate this difficult period.

The Bailey family’s commitment to their faith, family, and community remains steadfast, and they are finding solace in the love and support of those around them.