Story perspectives

Tragic Helicopter Crash Claims Lives of GOP Candidate's Family

10/23/2025

Summary

Story summary

Darren Bailey, a Republican gubernatorial candidate in Illinois, lost four family members in a helicopter crash in Montana on October 22, 2023.
The victims included his son Zachary, daughter-in-law Kelsey, and their two children, Vada Rose, 12, and Samuel, 7.
Bailey's campaign expressed heartbreak and requested privacy during this time.
The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash of a Robinson Helicopters R66 near Ekalaka.
Bailey is campaigning for the 2026 election after losing the 2022 gubernatorial race to JB Pritzker.

History

Historical Context

In 2011, the National Transportation Safety Board investigated multiple fatal crashes involving Robinson Helicopters, raising significant safety concerns about private aviation. The Robinson R44, a widely used model since 1992, has been linked to numerous accidents, prompting regulatory scrutiny. Darren Bailey's recent tragedy, involving a Robinson R66 crash in Montana, underscores ongoing discussions about improving aviation safety standards to prevent future incidents.

1 of 2

Story summary

Darren Bailey, a Republican gubernatorial candidate in Illinois, lost four family members in a helicopter crash in Montana on October 22, 2023.
The victims included his son Zachary, daughter-in-law Kelsey, and their two children, Vada Rose, 12, and Samuel, 7.
Bailey's campaign expressed heartbreak and requested privacy during this time.
The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash of a Robinson Helicopters R66 near Ekalaka.
Bailey is campaigning for the 2026 election after losing the 2022 gubernatorial race to JB Pritzker.

1 / 2