VIDEO: Serious injuries reported after fireworks explosion at Lake Martin

WAKA Action 8 News,

Posted: Jul 5, 2025 8:04 AM CDT

Updated: Jul 5, 2025 3:15 PM CDT

Six people have been injured, some seriously, after an explosion involving fireworks at Lake Martin last night.

Capt. Jeremy Burkett with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency said the explosion happened on a pontoon boat and involved unpermitted fireworks that were part of a show.

The show has apparently been put on for decades near the Kowaliga Basin in Blue Creek.

The explosion happened at about 9:14PM. Burkett said the pontoon boat had been modified into a fireworks platform. Eyewitness video appears to show fireworks exploding near ground level.

The explosion resulted in the injuries of William C. Davis, 39, and Aaron L. Kovak, 49, who were both flown to University of Alabama Birmingham (UAB) Hospital.

Also injured were Alan J. Simmons, 31, who was taken to Lake Martin Community Hospital in Dadeville, as well as Johnathan R. Wilmarth, 43, Joshua A. Husted, 36, and Matthew Davila, 28, who were taken to hospitals.

The conditions and hometowns of those injured are not yet known.

Moment that fireworks on the boat exploded at Lake Martin, Friday, July 4, 2025 – Photo from Megan Baker, used with permission

Troopers with the Marine Patrol Division responded to the scene and notified ALEA’s State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) Hazardous Device Unit along with Alabama Fire Marshal’s Office. Special Agents with the Hazardous Device Unit and Deputy State Fire Marshals arrived on scene and were able to render the remaining unexploded fireworks safe.

ALEA has these tips on shooting fireworks safely:

Never launch fireworks from boats unless specifically permitted and equipped with proper safety measures.
Avoid firing over crowded areas, marinas, or boats – embers can land and start fires.
Secure your fireworks setup to prevent tipping or misfires due to wind or movement.
Do not swim near areas where fireworks are being launched.
Remember to always celebrate responsibility.

(Video and Photo from Megan Baker. Used with permission.)