Illinois governor contender loses four family members in plane crash

Bailey’s son, Zachary, his wife Kelsey, and their two children - a 12-year-old, Vada Rose, and a 7-year-old, Samuel - were on board the helicopter, which crashed in a remote area. The couple’s third child was not traveling with them.

“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 family said in a statement.

Aaron Del Mar, Bailey’s vice-presidential running mate and family spokesperson, said that Zachary was piloting the helicopter. The family had been in Montana to expand the use of helicopters in their family farming business.

Del Mar added that Zachary had obtained his pilot’s license many years ago to deliver medical aid and humanitarian supplies to third-world countries.

The cause of the crash is currently unknown. The National Transportation Safety Board has launched an investigation into the accident near the town of Ekalaka, while the Carter County Sheriff’s Office reported responding Wednesday evening to the site in the hilly Chalk Butte area.

Bailey, who previously served in the Illinois House of Representatives and Senate, lost the 2022 gubernatorial election but has announced plans to run again in 2026.

Governor JB Pritzker and his wife expressed condolences to the Bailey family. “I cannot imagine losing a child, losing two grandchildren, and what they must be going through,” he said.

The Illinois Republican Party also offered its sympathies. “Please join us in keeping the Bailey family in our thoughts and prayers during this unimaginable time,” said party chair Kathy Salvi in a statement.

This tragedy is a devastating blow to both the family and Darren Bailey’s campaign, who is known for his criticism of Pritzker’s policies on the pandemic and crime in Chicago.