Former Illinois Senator Darren Bailey's Family Suffers Fatal Montana Helicopter Crash

Darren Bailey, a Republican gubernatorial candidate and former Illinois state senator, is grieving the loss of his son Zachary, daughter-in-law Kelsey, and two grandchildren, Vada Rose and Samuel, who died in a helicopter crash in Montana. The family's other grandson, Finn, was not on the helicopter and is safe. The crash involved a Robinson R66 helicopter and occurred near Ekalaka, Carter County, Montana, prompting an investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration. Bailey and his wife Cindy are finding solace in their faith, family, and the support from the community, while requesting privacy during this difficult time. The tragedy has elicited condolences from across the political spectrum, including Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, and Bailey's campaign has suspended public events indefinitely. Investigators have indicated that determining the cause of the crash may take weeks or months.