Illinois gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey is facing unimaginable grief after losing his son, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren in a helicopter crash. His campaign announced the tragedy on social media, sharing that the accident occurred in Montana.
Bailey, his wife Cindy, and their family are leaning on their faith during this difficult time, asking for privacy as they mourn. Only their other grandson, Finn, who is 10 years old, was not on the helicopter and is safe.
This devastating news comes as Bailey prepares for the 2026 Illinois gubernatorial election, having previously lost to Governor JB Pritzker in 2022. Both Pritzker and Senator Tammy Duckworth expressed their condolences, highlighting the profound sorrow that such a loss brings. Pritzker mentioned, “Our prayers and deep condolences are with the Baileys.”
The family leaves behind a rich legacy. Zachary Bailey, Darren’s son, worked at the family farm and was also a pilot. His wife, Kelsey, was known for her work in fitness and owned a supplement store. The accident has drawn much attention on social media, with people expressing their sympathy and sharing their memories of the family.
According to a report by the National Transportation Safety Board, investigations into the accident are ongoing. Helicopter crashes, while rare, can have devastating consequences, as seen in this case. Understanding safety regulations for private flights is essential. In fact, statistics show that accidents in general aviation, including helicopters, occur at a rate of 1.02 per 100,000 flight hours.
This tragedy not only impacts the Bailey family but also sends ripples through the political landscape of Illinois as Bailey navigates his campaign amidst personal loss. The support from others, including Pritzker and Duckworth, underscores a shared humanity, reminding us that even in politics, compassion matters.
As the community rallies around the Baileys, it’s clear that they are not alone in their sorrow.
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