A preliminary report from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) indicates that the helicopter was a 1962 Bell 47G3B-1. The aircraft departed from a private airstrip in Missouri and was headed to an airfield in Illinois when it crashed.
The victims of the crash have been identified as 26-year-old Andrew Bailey, 21-year-old Ty Bailey, and 14-year-old Tyler Bailey, who were all children of Darren Bailey. The fourth victim has been identified as 53-year-old Paul Atkinson, a family friend and pilot of the helicopter.
The cause of the crash is currently under investigation by the NTSB. The agency will examine the helicopter's maintenance history, weather conditions at the time of the crash, and other factors to determine the cause.
Darren Bailey released a statement following the crash, saying, "I'm heartbroken by the loss of my family members and friends. I ask that people respect our family's privacy during this difficult time."
The crash has sparked an outpouring of support for the Bailey family from the Illinois Republican Party and other politicians.
Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker released a statement saying, "My heart goes out to the Bailey family during this incredibly difficult time. I've spoken to Darren, and he's grateful for the outpouring of support."
The NTSB is expected to release a preliminary report on the crash within the next few weeks. A final report may take several months to complete.
The community is rallying around the Bailey family, with a fundraising campaign set up to support them during this difficult time.
The crash serves as a reminder of the risks associated with helicopter travel and the importance of safety protocols.
The NTSB will continue to investigate the crash to determine the cause and make recommendations to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Bailey family will likely face a long and difficult road to recovery in the wake of this devastating loss.
A memorial fund has been established to support the Bailey family in the aftermath of this tragedy.
The community is coming together to support the Bailey family, with many offering condolences and support during this difficult time.
Tags: helicopter crash, Illinois GOP, Darren Bailey, family tragedy, National Transportation Safety Board Topics: Politics, Aviation, Tragedy
