Judy Henderson-Bailey : “Kansas woman drowns in river tragedy”

BOONE COUNTY — Authorities in Boone County, Arkansas, have reported a heartbreaking incident involving the drowning of a 69-year-old woman from Topeka, Kansas, identified as Judy Henderson-Bailey. The incident took place last weekend at the Carver section of the Buffalo National River.

According to a media release from the National Park Service, the Buffalo National River dispatch received a distress call just after 5 p.m. on May 19, reporting a possible drowning in the upper district of the river near Carver.

The unfortunate event occurred when Judy Henderson-Bailey was floating in a private kayak that overturned after colliding with a tree in the river channel. As a result, she was dragged under the water by a submerged tree.

Despite efforts from members of her floating party to rescue her, they were unable to reach her in time. It was noted that Henderson-Bailey was not wearing a personal floatation device at the time of the incident.

The Newton County Sheriff’s Office and the Hasty Volunteer Fire Department were among the agencies that responded to the scene to assist in the rescue efforts. Buffalo National River expressed gratitude towards these emergency responders for their swift action.

It is important to note that rivers and creeks, such as the Buffalo National River, can pose various hazards including strong currents, submerged trees, and other underwater obstructions that can make paddling activities more challenging and dangerous.

In light of this tragic incident, Buffalo National River encourages visitors to take necessary precautions and prioritize safety by wearing personal floatation devices while engaging in water activities. The park also offers a loaner life jacket program where visitors can borrow life jackets from designated ranger stations.

For more information on the loaner life jacket program and water safety guidelines, individuals are advised to contact the Tyler Bend Visitor Center at 870-439-2502.