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Fourth of July Boat Blasts on Georgia and Alabama Lakes Leave 13 Injured

Authorities in both states are investigating mechanical failures alongside permitting breaches following back-to-back on-water blasts.

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Overview

  • At around 7 p.m. on July 4, a 23-foot cabin cruiser being towed on Lake Lanier near Margaritaville erupted in flames and exploded, injuring seven people aged 5 to 45.
  • About two hours later, unpermitted fireworks on a pontoon boat detonated on Lake Martin’s Blue Creek, hospitalizing six individuals.
  • Hall County Fire Rescue, Georgia Department of Natural Resources and Alabama Fire Marshal’s Office deployed rescue boats, portable pumps and air medical units to control fires and evacuate victims.
  • All injured parties remain in stable condition and no fatalities have been reported as investigators probe equipment malfunctions and permit violations.
  • Officials have launched reviews of holiday boating safety protocols and fireworks regulations for high-traffic Southeast recreation lakes.