MISSOULA, Mont. — Illinois gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey and his wife, Cindy, are mourning the deaths of their son and his family following a helicopter crash in Montana.
According to the National Transportation Safety Board, a Robinson Helicopters R66 crashed near Ekalaka, Montana. The incident is currently under investigation.
The Carter County Department of Emergency Services reported that law enforcement and first responders were dispatched at approximately 7:22 p.m. on Wednesday.
Zachary Bailey, his wife Kelsey, and their children—12-year-old Vada Rose and 7-year-old Samuel—were killed in the crash. The couple's grandson, 10-year-old Finn, was not on board and is safe.
A statement from the Darren Bailey/Aaron Del Mar campaign expressed the family's heartache from this loss, noting, “Darren and Cindy are heartbroken by this unimaginable loss.” They are finding solace in their faith and the support of friends and family during this difficult time.
The Baileys expressed gratitude for the outpouring of kindness and support and requested privacy as they grieve.