Joey Broom Obituary-Death News; Joey Broom Dies, Flint Davis of Leesburg, Georgia Injured in Smith Lake Boating Accident
Authorities have released the identity of the man who died in a tragic boating accident on Smith Lake Wednesday morning. The incident occurred during an active fishing tournament and has since prompted an outpouring of grief from both the local community and the competitive fishing world.
Joey M. Broom, a 58-year-old man from Altoona, Alabama, lost his life when the Center Console vessel he was on collided with a Nitro Bass Boat.
According to troopers with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), the crash took place near the Miller Flats area of Smith Lake, a popular fishing and recreational destination. Several other individuals sustained injuries in the collision, although specific details regarding the extent of those injuries have not yet been released.
The Nitro Bass Boat involved in the crash was being operated by angler Flint Davis of Leesburg, Georgia. Davis was participating in the Tackle Warehouse Invitational, a competitive event hosted by Major League Fishing (MLF), which draws anglers from across the country. Following the incident, MLF made the decision to cancel the remainder of the tournament, which had been scheduled to continue through Thursday.
In a public statement, MLF spokesperson Joe Opager expressed condolences on behalf of the organization. “Out of respect for those involved, and to ensure the accuracy of all information, no further details will be released at this time.
MLF is working closely with law enforcement and emergency officials. Additional updates will be provided as they are confirmed by the appropriate authorities. Our thoughts, prayers and deepest concern are with everyone affected by this tragic incident,” Opager said.
Emergency responders and investigators were quickly on the scene following the crash. ALEA has requested that the public avoid the immediate area as the investigation remains ongoing. Multiple local and state agencies responded to the emergency and are currently assisting with recovery and investigative efforts.
These include the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office, Cullman County Emergency Management Agency (EMA), Cullman County Dive Team, Cullman County Coroner’s Office, and Cullman County Emergency Medical Services (EMS).
Several fire departments and rescue squads also responded, including Crane Hill, Bremen, Cold Springs, Logan, and Jones Chapel, along with the Alabama Fire Marshal’s Office and ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division.
The collision has deeply affected not just those directly involved, but also the broader fishing and lake community. Smith Lake is known for its serene waters and scenic beauty, and the accident has served as a somber reminder of how quickly a peaceful day can turn tragic.
As of now, officials have not indicated what factors may have contributed to the crash, and an investigation is actively underway. Questions remain about visibility, boat speeds, and whether tournament activity may have played a role. ALEA has emphasized that the investigation is complex and ongoing, and they are committed to thoroughly examining all aspects of the incident.
Joey M. Broom is being remembered as a beloved member of the Altoona community. Friends and family have begun to mourn his sudden and tragic loss, describing him as a kind-hearted man who loved the outdoors. His death has left a deep void, especially for those who shared his passion for fishing and time on the water.
This story continues to develop, and more information will be shared as it becomes available. For now, Smith Lake remains a place of both reflection and mourning as authorities work to understand exactly what happened and how such a tragedy might be prevented in the future.
