Local News
Mass Casualty Incident Declared Following Fireworks Explosion in Lake Martin Blue Creek Area
LAKE MARTIN, AL – A mass casualty incident was reported during a Fourth of July fireworks display on Lake Martin near the Blue Creek area after an explosion occurred on a fireworks barge.
The incident unfolded near the Highway 49 Bridge, prompting an urgent and large-scale emergency response.
According to authorities, multiple individuals sustained injuries as a result of the explosion, which occurred on a floating dock where fireworks were being launched.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Marine Patrol has requested that all boaters immediately vacate the area to allow first responders full access to the scene.
Boating traffic is being restricted in the vicinity of Blue Creek as emergency operations continue.
Numerous first response units were dispatched, including Union and Stillwaters Fire Departments.
Several patients have been airlifted by Haynes LifeFlight helicopters, while additional victims have been transported by ground ambulance.
The exact number of injured individuals has not been confirmed, but sources indicate a high volume of casualties.
Witnesses report that the explosion occurred during the scheduled fireworks show, with emergency crews arriving within minutes.
The situation is still developing, and officials are urging the public to avoid the area and keep clear for ongoing rescue efforts.
Authorities are actively investigating the cause of the explosion.
Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Prayers and support are being extended to all those affected.
Local News
High-Angle Rescue in Progress After Teen Climbs 900-Foot KSDK TV Transmission Tower in Affton
AFFTON, MO — Emergency crews are conducting a high-angle rescue operation in Affton, Missouri, after a 17-year-old male reportedly climbed nearly 900 feet up a television transmission tower belonging to local station KSDK on Heege Road.
According to officials with the Lemay Fire Protection District, the call for assistance came in around 2:30 p.m. when witnesses reported seeing the teenager scaling the tower.
Responding units from both the Affton Fire Protection District and Lemay Fire Protection District quickly arrived on scene and established a command post at the base of the structure.
Fire officials confirmed that the individual, described as a 17-year-old male, was observed barefoot and positioned approximately 850 feet above the ground.
Authorities say they believe the teen may be under the influence of alcohol or another substance, though that has not been confirmed.
Specialized technical rescue teams are currently coordinating efforts to reach and safely bring the teen down from the tower.
The operation is described as extremely dangerous and complex, given the height and structural conditions.
Law enforcement personnel have secured the surrounding area, and roads near the tower have been closed as a precaution while emergency crews work.
This is a developing situation, and updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.