By: Ashlee Hall

The University of Montevallo mourns the loss of one of their own. Barrett Dempsey, freshman student-athlete was killed in a car crash on Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024.

Dempsey is from Byhaloia, Mississippi, was on the wrestling team and majoring in political science.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our wrestling student-athlete Barrett Dempsey,” said Montevallo Vice President for Athletics and Special Programs Mark Richard in a press release on the Montevallo Falcons website. “Barrett was a great young man and was well respected by his coaches, teammates, friends and family. We ask for everyone to keep the Dempsey family in your prayers.”

The Montevallo and Byhalia communities have come together to express their sympathy and show support for his family.

According to a Facebook post made by Dempsey’s home church, Carriage Hills Baptist Church, “Barrett was an amazing young man, full of life, love, service and joy.”

Montevallo’s wrestling match against Huntingdon that was scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 13, at 7 p.m. has been canceled out of respect for the sudden loss.