TALLAPOOSA COUNTY — Six individuals were injured following an onboard fireworks explosion during a Fourth of July celebration on Lake Martin. The incident occurred at approximately 9:14 p.m. on Friday, July 4, near the Kowaliga Basin in the Blue Creek area.
According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), the explosion involved a single pontoon boat that had been modified to serve as a fireworks platform. The fireworks used in the display were reportedly unpermitted, and a malfunction during the display led to the onboard explosion.
Among those injured were William C. Davis, 39, and Aaron L. Kovak, 49, both of whom were transported to the University of Alabama Birmingham (UAB) Hospital. Alan J. Simmons, 31, was taken to Lake Martin Community Hospital in Dadeville. Johnathan R. Wilmarth, 43; Joshua A. Husted, 36; and Matthew Davila, 28, were also transported to area hospitals for treatment.
ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division responded to the incident and was joined by Special Agents with the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) Hazardous Device Unit and Deputy State Fire Marshals. Responders were able to secure and neutralize additional unexploded fireworks that remained on the vessel.
The incident is under joint investigation by ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division and the Alabama Fire Marshal’s Office, with the latter leading the fireworks-related portion of the investigation.
In the aftermath of the explosion, ALEA issued a public fireworks safety advisory, urging Alabamians to exercise extreme caution during celebrations, particularly around waterways or while onboard boats.
Officials emphasized the following safety guidelines:
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Never launch fireworks from boats unless permitted and properly outfitted.
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Avoid setting off fireworks near marinas, crowded areas, or other vessels.
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Secure all fireworks setups to prevent shifting or tipping.
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Do not swim near areas where fireworks are being launched.
The investigation is ongoing, and no further details have been released at this time.
