Republican candidate faces “unimaginable loss” after four family members killed in helicopter crash

Illinois gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey and his wife, Cindy, are grieving the deaths of four close family members after a helicopter crash in Montana on Wednesday.

Illinois helicopter tragedy takes four lives

In a statement posted to social media, the couple said their son Zachary, his wife Kelsey, and their two children — 12-year-old Vada Rose and 7-year-old Samuel — were killed in the crash. A third child, Finn, was not on board and survived.

Bailey’s campaign described the tragedy as an “unimaginable loss,” adding that the couple are finding strength in their faith and the support of friends and well-wishers. “The Baileys deeply appreciate the kindness and support they have received and ask for privacy as they grieve,” the statement said.

Authorities have not yet released information about what caused the crash.

Bailey, a Republican and former Illinois state senator, is running again for governor after losing to Democrat JB Pritzker in 2022.

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