PAINFUL TRAGEDY: Illinois Republican gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey has announced the heartbreaking loss of his son, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren in a helicopter accident on Wednesday.
In a statement that has shaken communities across Illinois and beyond, Darren Bailey, the former state senator and recent Republican gubernatorial candidate, confirmed that his family suffered an unthinkable tragedy earlier this week.
Bailey revealed that his son, daughter-in-law, and two young grandchildren were killed in a helicopter crash that occurred late Wednesday evening. Speaking through tears, he described the moment he learned of the devastating news:
“Our hearts are broken. There are no words for the pain our family feels right now. We ask for privacy as we grieve and for prayers to carry us through the days ahead.”
Authorities are still investigating the cause of the crash, which took place in a rural area outside Nashville, Illinois, where the Bailey family has deep roots. Local officials reported that emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after the incident, but there were no survivors.
Messages of love and support have poured in from across the political spectrum, including from fellow lawmakers, community leaders, and countless citizens who have followed Bailey’s career and admired his devotion to family and faith.
A longtime advocate for rural families and small communities, Darren Bailey has often spoken about how his family has been the foundation of everything he does. Those who know him say this loss cuts to the very core of who he is. “Faith has always been his compass,” one friend said. “He’s leaning on that now more than ever.”
As Illinois and the broader political community mourn alongside the Bailey family, one thing is clear: this tragedy has reminded everyone — beyond politics and party — of the fragility of life, the power of love, and the need for compassion.
In his closing words, Bailey said softly,
“We know our loved ones are with the Lord. But down here on Earth, our hearts will never be the same.”