ALEA and Fire Marshal Investigating Unpermitted Display
SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS staff
TALLAPOOSA COUNTY, AL — A Fourth of July celebration on Lake Martin turned dangerous when fireworks exploded on a pontoon boat, injuring six men and prompting a multi-agency investigation.
According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), the boat had been illegally modified to launch fireworks when a malfunction caused a major explosion around 9:14 p.m. near the Kowaliga Basin.
Two victims, William C. Davis (39) and Aaron L. Kovak (49), were airlifted to UAB Hospital, while four others were treated locally. None of the injuries are believed to be life-threatening.
“A pontoon boat that had been modified into a fireworks platform malfunctioned … resulting in an onboard explosion,” said ALEA spokesperson Captain Jeremy Burkett.
The Alabama Fire Marshal’s Office is leading the investigation, while ALEA’s Marine Patrol and Hazardous Device Unit secured additional unexploded materials at the scene.
Authorities have emphasized the dangers of launching fireworks from watercraft without permits or proper safety measures. The planned fireworks display was canceled following the blast.
The case remains under investigation, and officials warn future violations could result in charges.