University of Oklahoma graduate and NewsChannel 4 sports director Bob Barry Jr. died in an Oklahoma City motorcycle accident at age 58 Saturday afternoon.
Barry was a well-known sports media personality in Oklahoma. He served as a weeknight sports anchor for KFOR and hosted a morning sports talk radio show on WWLS-AM/FM "The Sports Animal."
"The entire OU family was deeply saddened to learn of the tragic death of Bob Barry Jr.," Oklahoma president David Boren said in a statement. "He was a great supporter of the University and had a special place in the hearts of all Sooners."
The Oklahoma sportscaster is a Norman, Oklahoma, native and has served the state as a broadcaster for over 30 years.
He attended Norman High School and founded "The Foul Shots," a basketball team he created in 1982. According to KFOR, "The Foul Shots" raised over $1 million to support multiple charities and school systems in Oklahoma.
"I am extremely saddened to hear of Bob's passing, and I know everyone connected with our program shares those sentiments," Oklahoma football coach Bob Stoops said in a statement. "He was a one of the most respected and recognized sportscasters in our state, and a beloved friend to many. Our work will never be the same without him. We send our most heartfelt condolences to his family."
Barry was the son of a fellow Oklahoma broadcasting legend. Barry's father, Bob Barry Sr., provided play-by-play for Oklahoma football and basketball before passing Oct. 30, 2011.
He is survived by his wife Gina and four children.
"The OU Athletics family is stunned and incredibly saddened by the death of Bob Barry Jr. Bob was an energetic, dedicated and respected sportscaster, but he will probably be remembered by most for his great personality, strong love of people and the fact he was an Oklahoman," OU athletic director Joe Castiglione said in a statement. "The Barrys are one of the all-time great family stories when it comes to sports in our state, and OU has enjoyed a close connection with them for more than half a century. Our thoughts and prayers are with Bob's wife Gina and his entire family."
Update (10:35 p.m.) — KFOR's Abby Broyles reports the driver involved the accident has been arrested.
The driver in Bob Barry Jr's fatal crash has been arrested for manslaughter and driving without a license. @kfor
— Abby Broyles (@abbybroyles) June 21, 2015
