SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — In a devastating turn of events, the campaign of a Republican gubernatorial candidate in Illinois announced on Thursday the loss of four family members in a helicopter crash in Montana. The deceased were closely related to Darren Bailey, a former state senator who is eyeing the Republican nomination for governor in the next election.

The crash, which occurred on Wednesday, claimed the lives of Bailey's son, Zachary, his daughter-in-law, Kelsey, and their two children, Vada Rose, aged 12, and Samuel, aged 7. The couple's third child was not aboard the helicopter at the time of the accident.

The statement released by Bailey's campaign conveyed the profound grief of the family: “Darren and Cindy are heartbroken by this unimaginable loss. They are finding comfort in their faith, their family, and the prayers of so many who love and care for them.”

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has begun an investigation into the crash, which took place near the town of Ekalaka in eastern Montana. According to the Carter County Sheriff's Office, the helicopter went down southwest of the town early Wednesday evening.

Darren Bailey, hailing from Xenia, a small town in southern Illinois, announced earlier this year his candidacy for the GOP’s nomination for the 2026 gubernatorial race. He previously lost to Gov. JB Pritzker in the 2022 election and has also served terms in both the Illinois House and Senate.

The loss has resonated throughout the political community in Illinois. Kathy Salvi, Chair of the Illinois GOP, expressed the collective mourning of the party: “Please join us in keeping the Bailey family in our thoughts and prayers during this unimaginable time,” she said in a statement.

This tragic event underscores the personal challenges faced by public figures and their families, reminding us of the universal vulnerabilities to unexpected calamities. As investigations continue, the community and supporters have rallied to offer support and condolences to the Bailey family during this profoundly difficult period.