University of West Alabama student crash on tree.

A University of West Alabama student was killed when she lost control of her car and hit a tree.

The body of popular cheerleader Bethany Harris was discovered at the side of Interstate 20/59 following the crash on Dec. 28.

Harris, 19, was killed when she thrown clear from her Scion TC because she was not wearing a
seatbelt, reported Alabama.com.

Alabama State Troopers initially thought the driver had left the scene following the crash, before finding Harris’ body at the side of the road in a wooded area in Tuscaloosa County.

In a statement, the University of West Alabama said they were “deeply saddened” by her tragic death.

“She has many friends at UWA and will be greatly missed by the campus community, throughout which she was known and will be remembered for her dedication in the classroom and on the sidelines of Tiger athletics as a cheerleader,” they said.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Bethany's family and close friends during this devastating time.”

Harris was studying biology at the university and had hoped to become a pediatrician to help children with cancer

She was reportedly was last heard from Monday night following a basketball game, and was on her way home to Empire from Mississippi when the accident happened.

Classmates at the university have been offered counseling following her death.