The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) and the Alabama State Fire Marshal’s Office are continuing to investigate the fireworks explosion that occurred, July 4 on Lake Martin. The incident injured six individuals and involved a pontoon boat that had been modified into a fireworks platform.
According to officials, the explosion happened around 9:14 p.m. near the Kowaliga Basin in Blue Creek. The vessel, carrying unpermitted fireworks, malfunctioned during a planned fireworks celebration, resulting in an onboard explosion.
Six individuals were injured and transported to area hospitals for treatment: William C. Davis, 39, and Aaron L. Kovak, 49, were taken to the University of Alabama Birmingham Hospital; Alan J. Simmons, 31, was taken to Lake Martin Community Hospital in Dadeville; and Johnathan R. Wilmarth, 43, Joshua A. Husted, 36, and Matthew Davila, 28, were transported to other local area hospitals.
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Troopers with ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division responded to the scene and were assisted by the agency’s State Bureau of Investigation Hazardous Device Unit and the Alabama State Fire Marshal’s Office. The remaining unexploded fireworks on board were rendered safe by investigators.
The Alabama State Fire Marshal’s Office is leading the portion of the investigation concerning the fireworks and is requesting assistance from the public. Individuals who were on or near Lake Martin at the time of the incident and have video footage are asked to share it with investigators.
Videos can be submitted by email to firemarshal@insurance.alabama.gov or by calling 334-241-4166.
The investigation remains ongoing.
