CULLMAN COUNTY, Ala. (WBRC/Gray News) – Authorities in Alabama are investigating a deadly boat collision that happened during a fishing tournament on Smith Lake.
Troopers with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency said Joey M. Broom, of Altoona, was killed when the Center Console vessel he was on was hit by a Nitro Bass boat.
The crash happened near the Miller Flats area of Smith Lake.
Broom, 58, was a councilman for the Town of Snead.
Snead Mayor Tim Kent said, “He always had a smile on his face. No one ever had a bad thing to say about him. He always put the Town of Snead and its people first. They are deeply saddened and shocked. He will be missed.”
Major League Fishing confirmed the collision also involved angler Flint Davis, who was taking part in the second day of the Tackle Warehouse Invitation, and several boats from the competition.
The Cullman County Coroner’s Office said three bodies were ultimately recovered from the lake. Officials identified the other two victims as John K. Clark, 44, of Cullman, and Jeffrey C. Little, 62, of Brandon, Mississippi.
Clark and Little, according to ALEA, were also onboard the Center Console vessel and were thrown overboard during the incident. Both men drowned.
The remainder of the fishing competition has since been canceled, which was scheduled to continue until Thursday, following what officials called a “serious boating accident.”
Representatives with the tournament said their team is working with local authorities.
“MLF is working closely with law enforcement and emergency officials. Our thoughts, prayers and deepest concern are with everyone affected by this tragic incident,” Joe Opager, with Major League Fishing, said.
Law enforcement agencies said the situation remains under investigation.
