Fatal Fishing Collision: Justice For Smith Lake Victims

Tournament Tragedy- We are currently investigating the recent boating accident that claimed the lives of three men and injured two others during a Major League Fishing tournament on Smith Lake. Representing the widow of Jeffrey Little, we are working alongside Dan Mars of Mars, Mars & Mars, P.A. to seek justice for the victims.

The Collision

On April 16, 2025, at 7:03 AM, a Nitro Bass boat collided with a center console boat carrying five people. The tragic accident resulted in the deaths of three individuals, one of those being Jeffrey Little, on the center console boat. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision.

Advocating for Safety Measures

This tragedy underscores the need for stringent safety measures during such events. Mike Andrews emphasized that the incident highlights significant gaps in current safety protocols. He pointed out that ensuring the safety of participants in high-speed boating events requires meticulous planning and strict adherence to safety guidelines.

Mike stressed the importance of examining whether tournament organizers and sponsors had implemented a comprehensive boating safety management plan. Such a plan should account for the number of participants, the speeds at which they operate, and the presence of other boaters in the area. Key elements of an effective safety management plan include:

• Risk Assessment: Identifying potential hazards and assessing the risks associated with high-speed boating events.
• Safety Briefings: Conducting thorough safety briefings for all participants to ensure they are aware of the rules, potential dangers, and emergency procedures.
• Speed Regulations: Implementing and enforcing speed limits to prevent accidents caused by excessive speeds.
• Monitoring and Control: Ensuring that there are adequate measures in place to monitor the participants and control their activities, especially in areas with high traffic.
• Emergency Response Plan: Having a well-defined emergency response plan that includes quick access to medical assistance and rescue operations.

Seeking Justice

Our hearts go out to the families affected by this devastating event. We are committed to seeking justice for all those affected and are dedicated to ensuring that the victims’ families receive the compensation they deserve.

The tragic boating accident on Smith Lake has left a profound impact on the victims’ families and the community. Our goal is to prevent similar incidents in the future.