Illinois candidate's grandchildren among family killed in helicopter crash

October 23, 2025

Illinois gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey's son Zachary, daughter-in-law Kelsey, and two grandchildren (Vada Rose, 12, and Samuel, 7) died in a helicopter crash in Montana on Wednesday. Their 10-year-old grandson survived as he was not aboard the aircraft when the accident occurred. Bailey and his wife Cindy have requested privacy as they cope with this tragedy, finding comfort in their faith and family support.

Who is affected

Darren and Cindy Bailey who lost their son, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren
The surviving 10-year-old grandson who lost his parents and siblings
The Bailey family's extended family members
Darren Bailey's gubernatorial campaign team and supporters
The Republican party in Illinois

What action is being taken

Bailey and his wife are requesting privacy as they grieve
They are finding comfort in their faith, family, and prayers from supporters
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and his wife are extending condolences and prayers to the Bailey family
Bailey's campaign has made a formal announcement about the tragedy

Why it matters

The tragedy affects a prominent political figure in Illinois who is currently running for governor
Bailey is a former member of both houses of the Illinois state legislature
The incident brings together political figures across party lines in shared sympathy, as evidenced by Democratic Governor Pritzker's condolences
The accident impacts a public campaign for a major state office

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC