ALEA: Explosion on Lake Martin injures six during unauthorized fireworks display
An unauthorized fireworks display on Lake Martin ended in a serious explosion Friday night, injuring six individuals and prompting a multi-agency investigation.
Image: Viewer
The incident occurred at approximately 9:14 p.m. on July 4 near the Kowaliga Basin in the Blue Creek area of Lake Martin. According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, a modified pontoon boat—converted into a fireworks platform—malfunctioned and exploded during what appeared to be a planned but unpermitted celebration.
Image: ALEA
Six people sustained injuries in the blast. William C. Davis, 39, and Aaron L. Kovak, 49, were both transported to the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital. Alan J. Simmons, 31, was taken to Lake Martin Community Hospital in Dadeville, while Johnathan R. Wilmarth, 43; Joshua A. Husted, 36; and Matthew Davila, 28, were also transported to local hospitals for treatment.
Troopers with ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division were the first to respond and immediately notified ALEA’s State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) Hazardous Device Unit and the Alabama Fire Marshal’s Office. Special agents and Deputy State Fire Marshals secured the scene and safely neutralized remaining unexploded fireworks aboard the vessel.
Image: ALEA
A joint investigation is now underway between ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division and the Alabama Fire Marshal’s Office, with the Fire Marshal’s Office leading the inquiry into the illegal fireworks activity.
Authorities have not released additional details at this time, and the investigation remains ongoing
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