Political allies, opponents offer condolences after crash kills four members of Bailey family

ILLINOIS (WCIA) — Illinois GOP candidate for Governor Darren Bailey is mourning the loss of four members of his family after they were killed during a helicopter crash Wednesday night.

Former colleagues, party members and political opponents alike are stepping up to show their support for Bailey and his family.

The tragedy happened Wednesday evening near a small town in eastern Montana. There, a helicopter carrying Bailey’s son Zachary, Zachary’s wife Kelsey and two of their children, Vada Rose and Samuel crashed. All on board were killed. 

“Right now we’re just consoling the community as a whole and the Bailey family and all of our supporters statewide,” Aaron Del Mar, Bailey’s running mate, said.

The family’s youngest son Finn was not on board and is safe.

Del Mar said that Zachary was in Montana on a business trip to expand the use of helicopters at the family farm. He recalls Zachary getting his pilot’s license years ago to help deliver medicine and aid to underdeveloped countries. He believes Zachary was piloting the chopper when it crashed, but is still waiting to learn more.

“We don’t know the details regarding his mechanical failure or whatnot. We’re still waiting to find that out,” Del Mar said.

Since the news came down, condolences for the Bailey family have poured in.

Ted Dabrowski,  Bailey’s primary opponent, along with the Illinois GOP and House Representatives Mary Miller and Daren LaHood all offered their prayers and support.

Several Democrats joined Republicans in supporting Bailey as well, including Representatives Robin Kelly and Raja Krishnamoorthi and the Illinois Democratic County Chair Association.

Governor JB Pritzker, Bailey’s likely opponent should he win the primary — also shared his condolences for the Bailey family.

“I cannot imagine losing a child, losing two grandchildren and what they must be going through. That’s all I can say,” Pritzker said.

The NTSB is investigating.