A Republican gubernatorial candidate lost his son, daughter-in-law and two of his grandchildren after a helicopter crash.
Darren Bailey, 59, who is running to be the governor of Illinois, announced on social media that his son Zachary, his wife Kelsey and their two kids Vada Rose and Samuel all died in the collision in Montana on Wednesday night.
A statement said: ‘On Wednesday evening, Darren and his wife, Cindy, received the heartbreaking news no parent ever wants to hear.
‘Their son, Zachary, his wife, Kelsey, and their two young children, Vada Rose, age 12, and Samuel, age 7, tragically lost their lives in a helicopter accident in Montana.
‘Their other grandson, Finn, age 10, was not on the helicopter and is safe. Darren and Cindy are heartbroken by this unimaginable loss.
Bailey announced his son Zachary and his wife Kelsey died alongside their daughter Vada Rose, 12, and son Samuel, 7. Their other son Finn was not aboard the helicopter
Bailey is seen here alongside Donald Trump at a rally in Illinois in June of 2022
Details of the crash were not immediately available
‘They are finding comfort in their faith, their family, and the prayers of so many who love and care for them.
‘The Baileys deeply appreciate the kindness and support they have received and ask for privacy as they grieve and hold their loved ones close during this difficult time.’
Bailey, a former state senator, is currently running to unseat incumbent Governor JB Pritzker in the election next year, he previously ran for the position in 2022.
Details of the crash were not immediately available. According to social media posts made by Kelsey her husband trained as a pilot.
Zachary worked alongside his father and two brothers Cole and Mason at their family farm in Xenia.
FAA data points to Zachary owning a five seater 2015 Robinson R66 Helicopter under his company Bailey Aviation Management.
Bailey’s wife Cindy, who is also 59, reshared their joint statement to her own social media on Thursday which was quickly inundated with tributes.
One person said: ‘My heart is shattered for your family
This is a breaking news story.
