NTSB Launches Investigation
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has begun investigating a helicopter crash in Montana that claimed multiple lives, including members of Illinois gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey’s family.
A Heartbreaking Call
On Wednesday evening, October 22, Darren and his wife, Cindy Bailey, received the devastating news that changed their lives forever. Their son, Zachary, his wife, Kelsey, and their two children—Vada Rose, 12, and Samuel, 7—died in the crash. Their 10-year-old grandson, Finn, survived because he was not on board.
Family Statement and Grief
In a statement, the Bailey and Aaron Del Mar Campaign expressed the family’s heartbreak:
“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 statement continued, asking for privacy as the family mourns:
“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.”
Republican gubernatorial candidate, state Senator Darren Bailey and wife Cindy Stortzum take the stage at an election-night party on June 28, 2022 in Effingham, Illinois | Source: Getty Images
A Family Dedicated to Farming
Zachary and his family helped operate the Baileys’ fourth-generation farm in Xenia, Illinois. They had traveled to Montana for a farming convention and took one of the family’s four-seater helicopters to the event. Finn rode separately with a business partner due to limited space—an arrangement that ultimately saved his life.
Details of the Crash
The NTSB confirmed that the Robinson R66 helicopter went down near Ekalaka, Montana. The Carter County Department of Emergency Services reported that first responders arrived at approximately 7:22 p.m. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
According to Darren Bailey’s running mate, Aaron Del Mar, Zachary—who often went by “Zach”—was piloting the aircraft, with Kelsey seated beside him and their children in the back. The family had taken the flight as part of their business trip.
A Running Mate’s Tribute
Del Mar shared his heartbreak following the tragedy:
“I’m saddened beyond words. This is something that’s never supposed to happen. My heart aches for the Bailey family, for our campaign, and for the many people in Illinois whose lives the Baileys have touched. It’s truly soul-crushing.”