CULLMAN – The boating accident that left three people dead and three others injured is under investigation, officials said.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency said its Marine Patrol Division is investigating the crash.
The incident happened early Wednesday during Major League Fishing’s Tackle Warehouse Invitational on Lewis Smith Lake near Cullman.
According to ALEA, the crash between two boats – one involving a competitor – occurred just after 7 a.m. near the Miller Flats area of Smith Lake.
Joey M. Broom, 58, from Altoona; John K. Clark, 44, of Cullman; and Jeffrey C. Little, 62, of Brandon, Miss.; were killed when their boat collided with a Nitro Bass Boat driven by Flint Davis of Leesburg, Ga., one of the event’s competing anglers.
Broom was pronounced dead at the scene and Clark and Little were thrown overboard during the crash and drowned. Their bodies were recovered nearby.
Following the accident, Major League Fishing announced the cancellation of the final day of competition at Invitational Stop 3 scheduled for today.
“This is a heartbreaking moment for our entire organization,” said Kathy Fennel, MLF Executive Vice President and General Manager. “Our deepest condolences go out to the families and friends of those affected by this tragedy.”
Neither the ALEA nor MLF provided information on the circumstances of the crash or the conditions of those who were injured.
Out of respect for those involved, and to ensure the accuracy of all information, no further details will be released at this time, MLF said in a statement.
“MLF is working closely with law enforcement and emergency officials,” the statement said. “Additional updates will be provided as they are confirmed by the appropriate authorities.”
Davis issued a short statement Wednesday on Instagram.
“I want to thank everyone for the thoughts and prayers. I ask that you keep me and all of the other affected people and families in your prayers. I’ll let you guys know more when I can,” the angler said.
Other agencies that responded to the scene and are assisting ALEA include the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office, Cullman County Emergency Management Agency (EMA), Cullman County Dive Team, Cullman County Coroner’s Office, Cullman Emergency Medical Services, the Alabama Fire Marshal’s Office and volunteer fire departments from Crane Hill, Bremen, Cold Springs, Logan and Jones Chapel.
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