The family of former Republican state Sen. Darren Bailey was killed in a helicopter crash in Montana Wednesday night, his office said in a heartbreaking message.
According to a statement on his X account, Darren Bailey’s son Zachary, his wife Kelsey and their two children died in the helicopter crash.
“On Wednesday evening, Darren and his wife Cindy received the heartbreaking news no parent wants to hear,” the statement read.
“Their son, Zachary, his wife, Kelsey, and their two young children, Vada Rose, 12, and Samuel, 7, tragically lost their lives in a helicopter crash in Montana,” he added.
Darren Bailey’s other grandson, Finn, 10, survived the loss because he was not in the helicopter.
The family has requested privacy as they grieve the loss.
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“Darren and Cindy are heartbroken by this unimaginable loss. They find comfort in their faith, their family and the prayers of so many who love and care for them. The Baileys are deeply appreciative of the kindness and support they have received and ask for privacy as they grieve and hold their loved ones during this difficult time,” the statement continued.
What did the internet say?
Post X from Darren Bailey’s account received support from netizens.
“We are lifting you and your family in prayer during this unimaginable tragedy and loss. There are no words to make sense of something like this. I pray that God wraps you, Cindy and Finn in his arms and gives you strength for each moment that lies ahead,” the user said.
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“All your friends at Restore Our Constitution love you and lift you up in prayer every day. Our deepest condolences to Darren & Cindy Bailey and their entire family at this heartbreaking time,” added another.
Who is Darren Bailey?
Darren Bailey is an American politician who served one term in the Illinois State Senate from 2021 to 2023, representing the state’s 55th district.
Born in 1966, he was previously a member of the Illinois House of Representatives for the 109th district in southern Illinois.
Various media described him as a “far-right” politician,
Darren Bailey was the Republican candidate for governor of Illinois in 2022. However, he lost to incumbent Democrat JB Pritzker.
Last month, he launched a campaign to be the Republican candidate for governor of Illinois in next year’s election. His campaign describes him as a “family man” with an interest in agriculture.
According to his campaign, Darren Bailey “fought reckless spending, higher taxes and sanctuary state politics” during his time in the state Senate.
Bailey and his wife have three other children, all of whom are married. He has 13 grandchildren in total. They live on the family farm near Louisville.
