Darren Bailey Family Killed in Helicopter Crash

Four members of Illinois gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey’s family—his son Zachary, daughter‑in‑law Kelsey, and grandchildren Vada Rose, 12, and Samuel, 7—were killed when a helicopter crashed near Ekalaka in eastern Montana on Wednesday evening; the crash was reported at about 7:20 p.m. local time. Their 10‑year‑old son Finn was not aboard and is safe. Early reports identify the helicopter as a Robinson R66 and say Zachary Bailey was piloting; he was a rated commercial and instrument pilot who had flown for aid groups and in crop‑dusting operations. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating, the cause has not been released, and officials and fellow politicians, including Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, offered condolences. Bailey and his wife Cindy said they are heartbroken and asked for privacy as they grieve.