Tragedy Strikes Darren Bailey Family; Aaron Del Mar Reflects on the Devastating News (Louisville, IL) — The Illinois political community is mourning alongside Darren Bailey, Republican candidate for Governor, after the tragic death of his son, daughter-in-law, and two of his grandchildren in a helicopter accident in Montana.
According to a statement released by the Bailey/Del Mar campaign, the crash occurred Wednesday evening, claiming the lives of Zachary Bailey, his wife Kelsey, and their children Vada Rose (12) and Samuel (7). Their other son, Finn (10), was not aboard the helicopter and is safe.
“Darren and Cindy are heartbroken by this unimaginable loss,” the campaign said in its statement. “They are finding comfort in their faith, their family, and the prayers of so many who love and care for them. 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.”
In an interview with The Chicagoland Journal, Aaron Del Mar, Bailey’s running mate for Lieutenant Governor, reflected on the devastation facing the family and campaign team.
“Zach Bailey was in his helicopter with his wife and two children when it went down in Montana. Unfortunately, there were no survivors,” Del Mar said. “The Bailey family is all in Montana right now, grieving together. The rest of Illinois, the Republican Party, and the nation are grieving along with them.”
Del Mar described the campaign’s immediate shift from political operations to what he called “a transition force,” focused on providing comfort and logistical support to the Bailey family.
“We’re helping with transportation, bringing the family home to Illinois, and preparing for the celebration of life that will take place in approximately a week,” he said. “Politics doesn’t matter right now. This rises above all of that. It’s about faith, family, and helping those who are hurting.”
The lieutenant governor candidate said he and the campaign team are relying on faith and community support as they process the tragedy.
“The grief comes in waves,” Del Mar said. “But every kind word, every post, every prayer—it all helps lift a little bit of the weight off their shoulders.”
When asked about the future of the campaign, Del Mar said no decisions have been made.
“We have our petitions completed and will be turning them in Monday,” he explained. “After that, when Darren is ready to discuss it, we’ll make a decision. Whatever he decides—to step back or continue forward—I’ll be by his side.”
The Bailey family, longtime residents of southern Illinois, have long been known for their strong faith and deep ties to the agricultural and political communities of the state. Bailey previously served as a state senator and Republican nominee for governor in 2022, before launching another bid earlier this year with Del Mar as his running mate.
As condolences continue to pour in from across Illinois and beyond, Del Mar urged the public to continue sending prayers and positive memories.
“Every time somebody says something kind, it lifts just a little bit of that weight,” he said. “This tragedy reminds us all to appreciate our families and the gifts we’ve been given.”
A memorial service and celebration of life for the Bailey family are expected to take place in Illinois in the coming days.
Tragedy Strikes Darren Bailey Family; Aaron Del Mar Reflects on the Devastating News
