The son of Republican candidate for governor Darren Bailey, along with two of Bailey’s grandchildren and daughter-in-law, were killed in a helicopter crash in Montana, the former state senator’s campaign announced early Thursday.

“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 campaign said on Facebook.

The accident comes just weeks after Bailey announced his plans to run for the GOP nomination for governor for the second time. Bailey was the Republican nominee for the office in 2022 before losing by about 13 percentage points to Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker.

Bailey’s lieutenant governor running mate, Aaron Del Mar, told the Tribune that Bailey’s son was in Montana for a business event related to helicopters since his son uses them for his family’s farm business.

Bailey’s son was piloting the helicopter when the crash occurred, Del Mar said. He did not know the cause of the crash, and more details about it were not immediately available.

“Darren and Cindy are heartbroken by this unimaginable loss,” the Bailey campaign said on Facebook. “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 a statement on X, Pritzker and his wife, MK, offered their condolences to the Bailey family.

“MK and I are devastated to learn of the tragic passing of Darren and Cindy Bailey’s son Zachary, daughter-in-law Kelsey, and their two young children Vada Rose and Samuel,” the governor said. “Our prayers and deep condolences are with the Baileys in this time of grief. May the memories of their loved ones be a blessing.”

This coming Monday marks the first day in Illinois of the weeklong filing period for candidates running for governor and other offices to qualify for the top ballot position in their race. Del Mar said it’s the campaign’s intention to file its petitions, but he said he hasn’t discussed those details with Bailey.

“We’re concentrating on the family right now,” Del Mar said.

In a statement, the Illinois GOP said it’s “lifting up the Bailey family, their friends and community in prayer.”

“Please join us in keeping the Bailey family in our thoughts and prayers during this unimaginable time,” the state GOP said.

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