Kansas woman drowns in Carver, Buffalo National River

HARRISON, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — The National Park Service says dispatch responded to a possible drowning around 5 p.m. on Sunday, May 19, where dispatchers found an overturned kayak in the upper river near Carver.

Judy Henderson-Baily, 69, of Topeka Kansas, was found after it was discovered she was on a private kayak that overturned after hitting a tree in the river, the NPS said in a news release .

“After turning around in the water, the female was pulled under a submerged tree. Members of his floating group attempted to extract him, but without success,” the statement said.

Buffalo National River Dispatch found she was not wearing a life jacket. The Newton County Sheriff’s Office and Hasty Volunteer Fire Department assisted in responding to the incident.

“There are currents, falling trees and underwater obstructions in rivers and streams, which can make paddling more difficult. Buffalo National River offers a life jacket loaner program. You can borrow a life jacket from the Steel Creek Ranger Station, Tyler Bend Visitor Center, or the Buffalo Point Ranger Station. Please call the Tyler Bend Welcome Center at 870-439-2502 to learn more,” the release said.

Visitors can check Arkansas river levels on the USGS website.