Bella Vista couple with local ties lose lives from Aug. 9 accident near Fayetteville

A Bella Vista, Ark., couple who lost their lives in an Aug. 9 accident on Interstate 49 in Fayetteville, Ark., had ties to LeFlore County.

According to an Arkansas State Police report, 87-year-old Nan Brooks of Bella Vista was killed in the crash on Aug. 9.

The report states that a 2013 Hyundai, 2014 Buick, 2021 Toyota and a 2013 Hyundai were all traveling southbound on I-49 at 1:25 p.m., and the road was wet at the time due to rain.

Troopers say the first Hyundai was in the far left lane and lost control near mile marker 67, and then sideswiped the Buick which was traveling in the middle lane. The Buick came to rest in the far right lane and was struck by the Toyota, which was then struck by the second Hyundai. Brooks was a passenger in the Buick.

Brooks’ husband, Jim Brooks, was one of three others injured in the accident who were taken to taken to Washington Regional Medical Center and Northwest (Arkansas) Medical Center. Jim Brooks, 87, succumbed to his injuries Sunday.

Their son is Farmers Insurance Agent Brian Brooks in Spiro, whose wife Jennifer is a teacher at Poteau High School. Their son Ben graduated among the Class of 2022 after playing football and baseball for the Pirates.

A memorial celebration of life for Jim and Nan Brooks will take place from 6 to 8 tonight at Cavanaugh Free Will Baptist Church in Fort Smith, Ark.