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
29-Year-Old Alex Rodriguez Found Dead on University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign, No Foul Play Suspected
URBANA, Ill. — A 29-year-old Champaign man found dead on the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus Monday morning has been identified as Alex C. Rodriguez, according to the Champaign County Coroner’s Office.
The University of Illinois Police Department (UIPD) responded to the area of Green and Wright streets at approximately 6:42 a.m. after receiving a report of an unresponsive person near the Alma Mater statue.
Officers arrived and found Rodriguez on a concrete bench. Emergency medical assistance was requested at the scene.
The Champaign County Coroner’s Office responded, and Rodriguez was pronounced dead at approximately 7:16 a.m., according to Coroner Laurie Brauer.
Authorities said Rodriguez was not affiliated with the University of Illinois.
UIPD provided an update Monday afternoon, saying preliminary observations at the scene revealed no signs of foul play.
Police also said there was no evidence of an ongoing threat to the university campus or surrounding community based on the information available when officers responded.
Because investigators did not identify an active threat, the university did not issue an Illini-Alert emergency notification.
The circumstances surrounding Rodriguez’s death have not been determined.
An autopsy has been scheduled, and the death remains under investigation by the University of Illinois Police Department.
Authorities have not released additional information about the circumstances leading to Rodriguez’s death.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional details are expected as investigators receive further information from the autopsy and other evidence.
No foul play has been indicated based on the preliminary investigation.