A July 4th fireworks display turned catastrophic on Lake Martin in Tallapoosa County, Alabama, when an unpermitted setup exploded aboard a pontoon boat, injuring six people. The blast occurred at approximately 9:14 pm near the Kowaliga Basin in the Blue Creek area.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) confirmed the pontoon boat had been modified into a fireworks-launching platform. During the celebration, the fireworks malfunctioned, triggering an explosion. Two individuals, William C. Davis (39) and Aaron L. Kovak (49), was airlifted to UAB Hospital with serious injuries. Four others, Alan J. Simmons (31), Jonathan R. Wilmarth (43), Joshua A. Husted (36), and Matthew Davila (28), were transported to local hospitals for treatment.
ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division, the State Bureau of Investigation Hazardous Device Unit, and the Alabama Fire Marshal’s Office responded. The Fire Marshal’s Office is leading the investigation into the fireworks-related portion of the incident
If you or someone you love was injured in a fireworks-related explosion, contact Singleton Schreiber for a free legal consultation.
Why Fireworks on the Water is a Dangerous Combination
Launching fireworks from boats, especially unpermitted, makeshift platforms, is a serious safety hazard. Maritime conditions like unstable surfaces, wind, and proximity to fuel sources only heighten the risks of catastrophic injury.
In this case, investigators report the fireworks were unpermitted, and the pontoon boat had been modified without safety oversight. When fireworks are not stored, handled, or discharged properly, they can easily misfire or detonate unexpectedly.
“When safety takes a back seat, people get hurt,” says Danielle Ward Mason, attorney of Singleton Schreiber. “Our firm has handled numerous cases involving unpermitted fireworks, hazardous setups, and devastating burns or blast injuries. The consequences are often life-changing. We’re here to help victims recover, rebuild, and hold those responsible fully accountable.”
Legal Recourse Options for Victims
Victims of this fireworks explosion may have the right to pursue legal claims for compensation. Injuries from fireworks can lead to massive medical expenses, prolonged recovery, emotional trauma, and lost income.
Potentially liable parties may include:
- The individual or group responsible for modifying and operating the pontoon boat – for negligence in creating and executing an unpermitted fireworks display
- The owner of the boat, if different – for allowing the vessel to be used in an unsafe, unauthorized manner
- Any supplier or distributor of the fireworks – if a product defect or malfunction contributed to the explosion
Injured parties may be eligible to seek compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages or diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Scarring or disfigurement
- Permanent disability
If you’ve been injured in a fireworks explosion, contact Singleton Schreiber today to speak with an attorney who can evaluate your case and help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.
