White County, Arkansas — The quiet community of Heber Springs is in shock after 23‑year‑old Bradley Grady Tharp died in a violent single‑vehicle crash late Tuesday evening. Tharp’s life was cut short around 8:38 p.m. on January 20, when the car he was driving left the highway and overturned along northbound Interstate 57 near the 41‑mile marker in rural White County.
State troopers who responded to the scene described extensive debris scattered across the dark stretch of road. Tharp’s 2015 Dodge Dart had apparently veered off the pavement before rolling over several times. The force of the wreck threw him from the vehicle. Emergency crews pronounced him dead at the scene.
No other vehicles were involved in the crash, according to the Arkansas State Police. The roadway was clear and dry at the time, and weather conditions did not appear to be a factor, authorities said. Still, state troopers have not released whether Tharp was wearing a seatbelt when the crash happened.
Friends and family describe Bradley as a warm, bright young man with a ready laugh and a generous heart. Born and raised in the tight‑knit Heber Springs community, he loved the outdoors and had a way of lifting the spirits of those around him. In just 23 years, he made an impact that his loved ones say will not be forgotten.
“We’re heartbroken,” one close friend said. “It’s hard to make sense of something like this. Bradley had so much life left, so many plans, so much love to give.”
The Arkansas State Police continue to investigate what led to the crash. Troopers are reviewing speed, road conditions, and other details as part of their ongoing work. They are urging all drivers to stay alert, obey speed limits, and buckle up every time they’re behind the wheel.
In the days since his passing, messages of support have poured in from across Central Arkansas. Family, friends, and neighbors are gathering to remember Bradley’s kindness and celebrate the moments that defined his life. Those closest to him say his legacy of laughter, friendship, and generosity will live on in the memories of all who knew him.
