Illinois gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey and his wife, Cindy, are leaning heavily on their faith after an unthinkable tragedy. The couple announced that their son, daughter-in-law, and two young grandchildren were killed in a helicopter crash in Montana on Wednesday evening.

In a heartbreaking statement shared on social media, the Bailey family said, “On Wednesday evening, Darren and his wife, Cindy, received the heartbreaking news no parent ever wants to hear. Their son, Zachary, his wife, Kelsey, and their two young children, Vada Rose, age 12, and Samuel, age 7, tragically lost their lives in a helicopter accident in Montana.”

The couple’s surviving grandchild, 10-year-old Finn, was not on board the helicopter and remains with family. Bailey’s campaign said the family is “finding comfort in their faith, their family, and the prayers of so many who love and care for them.” The statement added, “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.”

According to Aaron Del Mar, Bailey’s running mate for lieutenant governor, Zachary Bailey was piloting the helicopter when it went down near Ekalaka, Montana. The National Transportation Safety Board has since confirmed it is investigating the crash, which involved a Robinson Helicopters R66.

Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, who Bailey is challenging in next year’s gubernatorial race, offered his condolences both online and in person. “Our prayers and deep condolences are with the Baileys in this time of grief. May the memories of their loved ones be a blessing,” he wrote on social media. Later, during a press conference, an emotional Pritzker said, “I cannot imagine losing a child, losing two grandchildren, and what they must be going through. This is not a time for politics.”

Zachary Bailey, a pilot and farmer, worked alongside his father on the family’s third-generation Bailey Family Farm in southern Illinois. His wife, Kelsey, was a fitness competitor and the owner of Faithfully Fit Supplements and Nutrition in Effingham, Illinois. Their social media pages reflected a family grounded in faith and a love for hard work and one another.

Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., also shared her sympathy, writing, “My heart breaks for Darren and Cindy Bailey as they face such an unimaginable loss. No parent should ever have to bury their own child.”

The Baileys have long been open about their Christian faith, often speaking of their trust in God through both trials and triumphs. Now, as they navigate the darkest chapter of their lives, they are clinging to that same faith for strength and peace.

As the investigation into the crash continues, friends, family, and supporters across Illinois are lifting the Baileys in prayer. In moments like these, when words fall short, the faith community stands united—believing that even in unbearable grief, God is near to the brokenhearted.