SCARY – Fourth Of July FIREWORKS BOAT BLAST!

A Fourth of July fireworks display on a pontoon boat exploded mid-show, injuring multiple people and prompting an immediate emergency response on Lake Martin, Alabama.

At a Glance

• A pontoon boat modified into a fireworks platform exploded Saturday around 9:14 p.m.
• Six people were injured; two critically and airlifted to Birmingham hospitals
• The explosion occurred after several fireworks had already been launched
• Authorities are investigating unpermitted fireworks as the likely cause
• An official safety advisory was issued for lake users following the incident

Display Turns Dangerous

During a lakeside Independence Day celebration on Lake Martin, Alabama, a pontoon boat carrying an unpermitted fireworks rig detonated around 9:14 p.m. local time, injuring six individuals, according to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. Two victims—William C. Davis, 39, and Aaron L. Kovak, 49—were airlifted to the University of Alabama Birmingham Hospital with serious burns, while the others were treated locally. Authorities confirmed the explosion resulted from a malfunction on a modified fireworks platform.

The pontoon had been docked offshore and equipped to launch a large-scale display for the holiday. Witnesses described a loud boom followed by smoke, debris, and screams as those aboard were thrown or burned. Fire crews responded quickly and contained the burning wreckage within minutes.

What Officials Say

The Alabama Fire Marshal’s Office and Marine Patrol launched a joint investigation into the mishap, identifying the use of unpermitted fireworks as a key factor. Eyewitnesses reported seeing a low-level blast near the launch area that ignited the barge, causing it to burn for several minutes. Marine patrols quickly secured the scene and conducted ordnance safety checks, according to multiple reports.

Investigators are interviewing survivors and reviewing video footage from nearby boats to determine the precise ignition sequence. Officials reiterated that public fireworks displays require permits, inspections, and professional oversight—none of which applied in this incident.

Broader Summer Safety Concerns

This accident adds to a surge of fireworks-related emergencies across the U.S. this holiday, ranging from house fires and personal trauma to widespread public safety advisories. Emergency departments nationwide have reported a spike in burns and blast injuries, prompting repeated warnings to exercise caution with consumer fireworks, according to an ER doctor interviewed by the New York Post.

Local authorities on Lake Martin have advised boaters and lakeside spectators to steer clear of floating fireworks platforms and have reiterated that all fireworks must comply with state and county regulations. The explosion serves as a stark reminder that festive displays, when improperly executed, can quickly devolve into life-threatening disasters.