Missouri Southern State University professor dies in accident at Arkansas lake

SPRINGDALE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — 'It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Dr. Alla Barry, a beloved professor of biology at Missouri Southern State University. Dr. Barry passed away following a tragic boating accident.' Those are words from a statement from Missouri Southern State University over the weekend, following the fatal boating accident that occurred on Beaver Lake on Friday. Nexstar's KNWA/FOX24 previously spoke with a Beaver Lake resident, who detailed the tragic event, but it was unclear who the victim was until the university took to social media and Arkansas Game and Fish confirmed the identity. Dr. Alla Barry, courtesy: Missouri Southern State University 'Dr. Barry leaves a lasting impact on the lives of the countless Missouri Southern State University students who she taught, mentored and inspired,' the post said. 'Her commitment to her students and meaningful contributions to the university will be part of her tremendous legacy. She will be greatly missed by her colleagues, students and all who had the privilege of knowing her.' What happened? Brad Wiegmann, who has lived at his Beaver Lake property for nearly 40 years, said the incident happened near his home and boat dock. He said he and his family members were swimming in the lake when they noticed three people in the area using a kayak and floating mats. He said he assumed the people were staying at the Airbnb next door to his property, which hosts many families throughout the year and tends to book-up on holiday weekends. After leaving the dock and returning later, Wiegmann said he noticed a ski boat between two boat docks. The boat was towing one of the mats he had seen earlier. He said, at first, it didn't seem out of the ordinary for people to be down around his docks. But then, after he saw people frantically moving around, he could tell an accident had occurred. He said he could hear the people talking about a boat striking someone in the water. According to Wiegmann, the boat believed to be involved in the accident initially left the area without stopping. The boat was later located, and the body was recovered from the water. It was unclear who the victim was until MSSU took to social media over the weekend, and Arkansas Game and Fish also confirmed the identity. The university included in the post that counseling services are available to students who may be struggling with the loss. Support is available in Billingsly Student Center, Room 347, or by calling 417-625-9559. Additionally, faculty and staff may reach out to Derek Collier, the Director of Human Resources, for support and available employee resources.