Local News
Three Dead Following Multi-Boat Collision on Smith Lake During Major League Fishing tournament
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) has released an official update regarding the tragic boating accident that occurred early Wednesday morning, April 16, on Smith Lake in Cullman County.
3 Dead in Smith Lake Boat Crash, Victims Identified
Authorities have now confirmed that the crash has claimed the lives of three individuals.
According to ALEA, the two-vessel collision took place at approximately 7:03 a.m. near the Miller Flats area of Smith Lake.
A Center Console vessel, carrying three individuals, was struck by a Nitro Bass Boat under circumstances that remain under investigation.
Among the victims was Joey M. Broom, 58, of Altoona, who was onboard the Center Console vessel at the time of the crash. Broom sustained fatal injuries during the impact and was pronounced dead at the scene.
ALEA has since confirmed that John K. Clark, 44, of Cullman, and Jeffrey C. Little, 62, of Brandon, Mississippi—also occupants of the Center Console vessel—were thrown overboard during the collision. Tragically, both men drowned and were later recovered by search crews in the vicinity of the Miller Flats area. Their deaths bring the total confirmed fatalities to three.
Troopers with ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division remain actively on scene and are continuing their investigation into the incident. ALEA has emphasized that additional details will be released as they become available.
The agency is urging the public to avoid the immediate crash area while the investigation is ongoing and out of respect for the victims and their families. Multiple emergency response agencies, including local fire departments, EMS units, dive teams, and law enforcement, are continuing to assist in the operation.
This devastating event marks a somber day for the Smith Lake community and beyond. ALEA and local officials extend their deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those lost.
Original Report:
Authorities have confirmed two fatalities following a multi-boat collision on Smith Lake early Wednesday morning.
The crash occurred around 7 a.m. near Burr’s Island, just outside the mouth of Miller Bottoms, according to the Cullman County Emergency Management Agency (EMA).
Officials say the incident involved a Major League Fishing (MLF) competitor who was reportedly blinded by heavy fog and accidentally collided with a professional guide boat.
The Cullman County Coroner confirmed that two individuals were pronounced dead at the scene. Additional injuries have been reported, but the exact number and severity remain unknown at this time.
At least one emergency medical helicopter was seen flying near the scene to assist with medical transport.
The Cullman County EMA, Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), and other emergency responders are currently managing the scene.
ALEA is leading the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The boating accident occurred during Day 2 of the Major League Fishing Tackle Warehouse Invitational, a high-profile professional fishing tournament.
It remains unclear how many boats were involved or whether additional tournament participants were affected.
In a statement, MLF spokesperson Joe Opager confirmed the crash occurred during the event and offered condolences to those impacted.
“Out of respect for those involved, and to ensure the accuracy of all information, no further details will be released at this time,” Opager stated. “MLF is working closely with law enforcement and emergency officials. Additional updates will be provided as they are confirmed by the appropriate authorities. Our thoughts, prayers, and deepest concern are with everyone affected by this tragic incident.”
Authorities are urging the public to avoid the area while the investigation is ongoing.
More information will be shared as it becomes available.
Local News
Authorities Identify Three Missing Girls in Missouri River Near Dodge Park
A 13-year-old girl was the only one who managed to get out of the water.
Authorities in Omaha have confirmed that search and recovery efforts are ongoing for three girls who went missing in the Missouri River near NP Dodge Park on Tuesday evening, April 15, 2025.
According to officials, four girls had gone fishing and entered the water near a boat dock in the area around 6:00 p.m. Witnesses reported that the girls began to struggle as they floated down the river.
A 13-year-old girl was the only one who managed to get out of the water.
She was later found on the riverbank, visibly distressed and crying.
Omaha Fire Battalion Chief Coby Werner stated that the girl, who was transported to a local hospital for evaluation, informed emergency responders that she was related to the three others who were still missing.
The missing individuals have been identified as 18-year-old Laiana Green, 18-year-old Lah K. Tray Moo, and 11-year-old Eh Cress Moo.
Authorities have not released information suggesting that any of the girls were wearing life jackets at the time of the incident.
What began as a rescue operation on Tuesday evening has now transitioned into a recovery mission, as confirmed by Omaha Fire and Rescue on Wednesday morning.
The water temperature in the Missouri River, currently around 45 degrees Fahrenheit, poses a serious risk by potentially delaying the resurfacing of individuals, officials noted.
Search crews were forced to suspend operations around sunset on Tuesday due to low visibility and safety concerns.
The recovery effort resumed early Wednesday morning with a more coordinated strategy—agencies were assigned designated areas along the river to search individually to maximize coverage.
Despite some promising signals throughout the day, those sightings were ultimately determined to be debris.
Emergency services have expanded their search zone and plan to continue efforts into the weekend, moving further downstream. Specialized equipment, including sonar technology, drones, and aerial surveillance from a police helicopter, is being utilized to aid in locating the missing girls.
As of Wednesday evening, eight boats and four responding agencies were actively involved in the search, including Omaha Fire Department, Bennington Fire Department, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
“The Missouri River is extremely hazardous, especially at night,” said Battalion Chief Werner. “There’s a strong current, submerged debris, and poor visibility. Earlier today, we saw a large tree float past, which shows how dangerous this environment is for our crews.”
Authorities are requesting the public to avoid the river while recovery operations continue and urge community members to keep the families of the missing girls in their thoughts.
“This is an unimaginable tragedy,” said a spokesperson for Omaha Fire. “But we remain committed to bringing closure to these families. Our teams will be out here at first light every day until this mission is complete.”