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.
Talladega County, Ala. – Authorities have confirmed that a 55-year-old Sylacauga man was killed in an early morning ATV crash after colliding with a deer in Talladega County.
The incident occurred at approximately 2:00 a.m. on Monday, September 29, 2025, on Oakland Road, about two miles west of Sycamore.
According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s (ALEA) Highway Patrol Division, the victim has been identified as Willie F. Martin.
Investigators reported that Martin was operating a 2020 Yamaha YFZ450 ATV when the vehicle struck a deer in the roadway.
Following the impact, the ATV veered off the road and overturned. Martin was ejected from the vehicle and sustained fatal injuries.
He was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Trooper Jaylon James of ALEA confirmed the details of the crash and said that no other vehicles were involved.
The collision remains under investigation by ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division, and no additional information has been released at this time.