Local News
5 Injured After Boat Explosion on Lanier Islands During Fourth of July Holiday
ATLANTA, Ga. — Five individuals were hospitalized following a boat explosion and subsequent fire on Lake Lanier Thursday evening, according to Hall County Fire Rescue officials.
The incident occurred around 7:00 p.m. near Margaritaville at Lanier Islands.
Hall County Sheriff’s Office deputies, along with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), responded to assist firefighters at the scene.
A nearby Hall County Fire Rescue boat witnessed the explosion and reached the burning vessel within minutes.
Upon arrival, crews found five individuals on board, all of whom sustained injuries.
One pediatric patient was airlifted to Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta.
Four others were transported via ambulance — three to Grady Memorial Hospital and one to Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NEGMC) in Gainesville.
All five victims were reported to be in stable condition at the time of transport.
The exact cause of the explosion remains under investigation by local authorities.
The incident occurred amid Fourth of July celebrations, drawing heightened attention due to the holiday weekend activity on the lake.
Local News
Ka’Ontee’ Dajuan Johnson Killed in Crash on Lucas and Hunt Road in North St. Louis County
Authorities have identified the pedestrian killed in an early-morning crash in north St. Louis County as Ka’Ontee’ Dajuan Johnson, 30.
According to the St. Louis County Police Department, North County Precinct, officers responded to a report of a motor vehicle crash at approximately 1:26 a.m. on Saturday, January 17, 2026, in the 9000 block of Lucas and Hunt Road.
Upon arrival, officers located Johnson, who had been struck by at least one vehicle while he was in the roadway.
Johnson was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Police stated that the driver of one involved vehicle remained on scene and is cooperating fully with the investigation.
A preliminary investigation indicates that Johnson was in the roadway at the time he was struck.
Family members have expressed concerns that another vehicle may have struck Johnson first and fled the scene, and they believe the circumstances surrounding the incident may involve possible foul play.
Authorities have not confirmed these claims but noted that the investigation remains ongoing.
The incident remains under active investigation, and additional information will be released as it becomes available.
Anyone with information related to this crash is urged to contact the St. Louis County Police Department at 636-529-8210.
Individuals wishing to remain anonymous or be eligible for a potential reward may contact CrimeStoppers at 1-866-371-TIPS (8477).