Chicago Law Firm Advocates for Bailey Family After Fatal Helicopter Crash
McNabola & Associates Takes on Catastrophic Helicopter Crash Case
McNabola & Associates, a respected Chicago personal injury law firm, is representing the Bailey family in the aftermath of a devastating helicopter crash that claimed the lives of four family members on October 22, 2025. The firm is known for its work on catastrophic injury and aviation accident cases and is committed to seeking answers and justice for the family during this heartbreaking time.
The crash occurred near Ekalaka, Montana, taking the lives of:
- Zachary Bailey, 37, the pilot and son of Illinois gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey
- Kelsey Bailey, 35, Zachary’s wife
- Vada Rose Bailey, 12
- Samuel Bailey, 7
Their 10-year-old son, Finn Bailey, was not on board and remains safe.
Tragic Loss Sparks Investigation and Legal Action
Zachary Bailey was a skilled pilot who regularly flew the family’s helicopter for their farm operations and for his father's political campaign. At the time of the crash, he was reportedly on a business trip related to expanding agricultural aviation use for the family business.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the crash. A preliminary report noted that a witness saw a component separate from the helicopter before it went down. A full report may take more than a year to complete, but McNabola & Associates is already preparing to take legal action against any parties found responsible.
McNabola & Associates has a long-standing reputation for handling high-stakes personal injury litigation, including catastrophic aviation and helicopter accidents. With decades of experience representing plaintiffs and winning multimillion-dollar verdicts, the firm is uniquely equipped to handle complex investigations and litigation involving aircraft failure, manufacturer liability, and negligence.
The firm is committed to supporting the Bailey family not only through legal representation but also through compassionate advocacy during this period of unimaginable loss.
A Family and a State in Mourning
The Bailey family has received widespread condolences from both sides of the political spectrum, including statements from Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker and former President Donald Trump. Despite the tragedy, Darren Bailey has decided to remain in the race for governor, encouraged by his community and supporters.
This case is not just about one family—it is about the accountability and safety standards that must be upheld in the aviation industry to prevent similar tragedies.