A Montana helicopter crash on Wednesday evening has left four people dead, including close family members of Illinois gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey. The tragic accident occurred near the rural town of Ekalaka in southeastern Montana and has prompted a full investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
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Tragic Accident in Rural Montana
The crash took place around 7:22 p.m. local time when a Robinson R66 helicopter went down in Carter County, Montana. Authorities confirmed that all four people aboard — Zachary Bailey, his wife Kelsey Bailey, and their two children, 12-year-old Vada Rose and 7-year-old Samuel — were killed in the crash.
A third child, 10-year-old Finn, was not on board the helicopter and is safe. The aircraft reportedly went down in a remote area, making recovery efforts challenging for local responders.
The NTSB has since taken over the investigation, focusing on several key factors including the helicopter’s mechanical condition, pilot certification, and weather conditions at the time of the crash.
Details of the Victims
The victims were members of Darren Bailey’s immediate family. Zachary Bailey, the son of the Illinois gubernatorial candidate, was reportedly piloting the aircraft. He was traveling with his wife and two of their children.
Local authorities have confirmed that the wreckage has been secured and investigators are currently examining flight records and maintenance logs for the aircraft.
Investigation Underway
The NTSB and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have launched a joint investigation to determine what caused the Montana helicopter crash.
Investigators will be:
- Examining the flight path and communication data.
- Reviewing maintenance history of the Robinson R66 helicopter.
- Checking for potential equipment malfunction or pilot error.
- Assessing the impact of weather conditions in the region at the time of the crash.
While early reports do not indicate foul play, the final report could take several months to complete. Witness accounts from nearby ranchers are also being collected to aid the investigation.
Community and Political Response
Darren Bailey and his wife Cindy expressed their devastation following the tragedy, saying they were “heartbroken by this unimaginable loss.” Support has poured in from across Illinois and other states, with community leaders and political figures offering condolences.
The Bailey family has deep roots in southern Illinois, and the loss has resonated far beyond the state’s borders. Political campaigns across the Midwest have paused to express solidarity and sympathy for the grieving family.
Aviation Safety Concerns Highlighted
The Montana helicopter crash has reignited discussions surrounding aviation safety, particularly with smaller private helicopters like the Robinson R66. This model has been involved in several fatal incidents over the past decade, often linked to maintenance issues or pilot inexperience in varying weather conditions.
Key aviation experts note that helicopter travel in rural areas, especially at dusk or night, presents additional risks due to limited visibility and lack of emergency landing options.
Timeline of Events
| Date & Time | Event |
|---|---|
| Wednesday, October 22, 2025 | The Bailey family helicopter departs for a private flight over southeastern Montana. |
| 7:22 p.m. local time | The aircraft disappears from radar and crashes near Ekalaka, Carter County. |
| Late evening | Emergency teams respond to the crash site after reports from nearby residents. |
| Thursday morning | The Bailey campaign confirms the deaths of four family members. |
| Friday | NTSB and FAA initiate a full investigation into the cause of the crash. |
Reactions Across Illinois and Beyond
Leaders across Illinois have expressed their condolences to the Bailey family. Members of both political parties called the tragedy “a heartbreaking reminder of life’s fragility.” Supporters have held candlelight vigils in Bailey’s hometown of Louisville, Illinois, where the family has long been known for their community involvement.
Governor J.B. Pritzker also released a statement expressing sympathy and support for the Bailey family during this difficult time.
What Happens Next
The NTSB is expected to release a preliminary report within the next two weeks, detailing the known facts of the Montana helicopter crash. A full report, including probable cause, will take several months. In the meantime, investigators will continue analyzing wreckage remains, onboard systems, and flight instruments to piece together the final moments before the helicopter went down.
Funeral arrangements for the victims are expected to be announced in the coming days.
Broader Implications for Aviation Safety
This tragic event adds to a growing list of helicopter incidents across the U.S. in 2025, sparking renewed discussion about safety oversight and pilot training requirements for private flights. Industry analysts are urging the FAA to tighten regulations for small private aircraft and improve data collection on recurring crash patterns involving light rotorcraft.
For families across America who use small aircraft for private or business travel, this tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of strict maintenance schedules and cautious flight planning, especially in remote or mountainous areas.
Community Grieves and Waits for Answers
As investigators continue their work, the people of Illinois and Montana are united in grief, hoping that answers will soon emerge. The Bailey family’s loss has drawn national attention, with tributes flooding social media and local communities honoring the memories of those lost.
The coming weeks will bring more clarity, but for now, both states stand together in mourning — remembering a family taken too soon and a tragedy that has touched countless hearts.
Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this heartbreaking event. Share your thoughts or prayers for the Bailey family in the comments below to show your support.