4 family members of Illinois governor candidate killed in Montana helicopter crash, campaign says
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — Four members of the family of a Republican running for governor in Illinois were killed in a helicopter crash in Montana, the campaign announced Thursday.
Former state lawmaker’s son and daughter-in-law died in crash on Wednesday Darren BaileyHe lost the 2022 gubernatorial election in Illinois and is seeking his party’s nomination again in next year’s race. He previously served in both the Illinois House and Senate.
In the statement made by his campaign, it was stated that Bailey’s son Zachary, his wife Kelsey and their two young children Vada Rose (12) and Samuel (7) died in the accident. The couple’s third child was not on the helicopter.
“Darren and Cindy are heartbroken over this unimaginable loss. They find solace in their faith, their family, and the prayers of the many people who love and care about them,” the statement said.
The National Transportation Safety Board said Thursday it is investigating a helicopter crash near the town of Ekalaka in eastern Montana. The sheriff’s office in Carter County said the helicopter crashed southwest of the town early Wednesday evening.
Bailey, from the southern Illinois town of Xenia, announced this year that he is seeking the GOP’s 2026 candidate for governor. Governor J.B. Pritzker In 2022.
Pritzker said Thursday that he and his wife offered their condolences to the Bailey family. “I can’t even imagine losing a child, two grandchildren and what they are going through,” the governor said.
Bailey, a farmer and staunch conservative, dramatically raised his statewide profile in 2020 as a frequent critic of Pritzker’s approach to the coronavirus pandemic, including refusing to wear a mask during legislative hearings.
During his time as governor, Bailey railed against crime in Chicago and suggested eliminating the state’s gun licensing system, saying it did not prevent people from using guns illegally. He once supported a resolution seeking to make Chicago a separate state.
Bailey unsuccessfully challenged five-term incumbent Republican U.S. Representative Mike Bost He’s in a primary race last year for a district that covers most of the bottom third of Illinois.
Illinois GOP Chairwoman Kathy Salvi said in a statement that the party was saddened by the tragic loss. “Please join us in keeping the Bailey family in our thoughts and prayers during this unimaginable time,” the statement said.
