A retired school administrator drowned Sunday evening on Lake Norfork after falling from a pontoon boat near 101 Boat Dock in Gamaliel, according to local authorities.
The victim, identified as 65-year-old Bryan Russell, was reported to have fallen into the lake as the boat approached the dock shortly after 9:00 p.m. Witnesses told investigators that another individual on the boat jumped into the water in an effort to save Russell, who was known to be a strong swimmer.
Emergency responders, including deputies from the Baxter County Sheriff's Office and personnel from the Gamaliel 101 Fire Department, were dispatched to the scene. According to officials, Russell’s body was recovered in 17 to 18 feet of water by a team composed of a sheriff's office dive team member, the owner of 101 Boat Dock, and a member of the Northeast Lakeside Fire Department.
Russell was a graduate of Highland High School and served in education for many years, including roles as a principal in Viola and as the superintendent for Valley View before his retirement.
Additional details on the circumstances surrounding the incident have not been released.