Illinois Politician Darren Bailey's Family Suffers Tragic Loss in Montana Helicopter Crash
Four members of former Illinois politician Darren Bailey's family, including his son, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren, died in a Montana helicopter crash. His grandson Finn is safe, as Bailey announces his 2026 gubernatorial bid.
Overview
- Darren Bailey, a former Illinois politician and announced 2026 GOP gubernatorial candidate, tragically lost his son, daughter-in-law, and two young grandchildren in a helicopter crash in Montana.
- The devastating accident claimed four family members, but Bailey's 10-year-old grandson, Finn, was confirmed safe as he was not aboard the helicopter.
- The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the fatal helicopter crash, which occurred in eastern Montana.
- This profound personal tragedy impacts Darren Bailey, who recently announced his candidacy for the GOP's nomination for Illinois governor in the 2026 election.
- The Bailey family is respectfully requesting privacy as they mourn their immense loss, drawing strength from their faith, family, and community support.
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Analysis
Center-leaning sources cover the tragic helicopter crash involving Darren Bailey's family neutrally. They focus on reporting the facts of the accident, identifying the victims, and providing relevant political context about Bailey's career. The coverage includes official statements and condolences from public figures, attributing emotional language directly to those sources, and avoids editorializing the tragedy or Bailey's political standing.
"The tragedy comes as Bailey announced he was running for governor of Illinois in the 2026 election as a Republican against Gov. JB Pritzker."
NBC News"Bailey and his wife, Cindy, are "heartbroken by this unimaginable loss" and request "privacy as they grieve and hold their loved ones close during this difficult time"."
BBC News"Darren and Cindy are heartbroken by this unimaginable loss."
ABC News"Darren and Cindy are heartbroken by this unimaginable loss."
Associated Press"The accident comes just weeks after Bailey announced his plans to run for the GOP nomination for governor for the second time."
Chicago Tribune"Darren and Cindy are heartbroken by this unimaginable loss."
USA TODAY"Darren and Cindy are heartbroken by this unimaginable loss."
Chicago Sun-TimesArticles (13)
Center (7)
FAQ
Darren Bailey's son Zachary, daughter-in-law Kelsey, and two grandchildren, 12-year-old Vada Rose and 7-year-old Samuel, died in the helicopter crash in Montana.
Yes, Darren Bailey's 10-year-old grandson Finn was not aboard the helicopter and is confirmed safe.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation into the helicopter crash to determine its cause.
Despite the tragedy, Darren Bailey has announced his candidacy for the GOP nomination for Illinois governor in the 2026 election.
The Bailey family is heartbroken and asking for privacy while mourning. They are drawing strength from their faith, family, and community support and appreciate the kindness and prayers they have received.
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