John K. Clark, Jeffrey C. Little Obituary, Death – Three men lost their lives in a tragic boating accident that occurred early Wednesday morning on Smith Lake in Cullman County, Alabama. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) released the identities of the victims and provided initial details about the fatal incident.
According to ALEA, the crash happened at approximately 7:03 a.m. near the Miller Flats area of Smith Lake. The collision involved two watercraft: a Center Console vessel carrying the victims and a Nitro Bass Boat, which reportedly struck the other vessel during the incident.
Joey M. Broom, a 58-year-old resident of Altoona, was fatally injured in the crash. He was aboard the Center Console boat when it was hit by the oncoming Nitro Bass Boat. ALEA confirmed that Broom died as a result of the injuries he sustained in the crash.
Also on board the Center Console boat were John K. Clark, 44, of Cullman, and Jeffrey C. Little, 62, of Brandon, Mississippi. The force of the collision reportedly threw both Clark and Little into the water. Sadly, both men drowned and were later found deceased. Their bodies were recovered in the vicinity of the crash near Miller Flats.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Marine Patrol Division is leading the investigation into the deadly crash. At the time of the incident, a fishing tournament was underway on Smith Lake, a fact confirmed by ABC 33/40. However, officials have not yet stated whether the tournament had any direct connection to the crash or if either vessel was involved in the event.
The deadly incident prompted a large-scale emergency response from numerous local agencies. First responders from across the region were dispatched to the scene to assist in rescue and recovery efforts. The Cullman County Sheriff’s Office, Emergency Management Agency, and Dive Team were among the first on site. The Cullman County Coroner’s Office was also involved in the recovery and identification of the deceased.
Emergency medical personnel from Cullman County Emergency Medical Services provided support at the scene, while multiple fire departments — including Crane Hill, Bremen, Cold Springs, Logan, and Jones Chapel Fire and Rescue — contributed manpower and equipment to the operation. The Alabama Fire Marshal’s Office also joined the response, working alongside ALEA’s Marine Patrol troopers to manage the aftermath of the crash.
Smith Lake, known for its clear waters and popular with both recreational boaters and fishing enthusiasts, has seen its share of accidents in the past. However, this particular incident stands out due to the number of fatalities and the wide-reaching impact on multiple communities. All three victims were from different parts of the region, and their deaths have left family members, friends, and neighbors mourning a sudden and tragic loss.
Joey Broom, remembered by those who knew him as a kind and hardworking man, was well-regarded in Altoona and often spent time enjoying outdoor activities. John Clark, a resident of Cullman, was known in the local boating community and had a reputation as an avid fisherman. Jeffrey Little, who hailed from Mississippi, was visiting the area and had come to Smith Lake with friends. Tributes to the men have begun to circulate on social media, with many offering condolences and sharing memories of the victims.
The investigation into what caused the crash is ongoing. Authorities are examining whether speed, visibility, mechanical issues, or human error may have contributed to the collision. Investigators are also likely reviewing weather conditions at the time of the crash and interviewing any witnesses who may have seen the boats before the accident occurred.
With a tournament underway, the lake would have likely had increased boat traffic, which can complicate navigation and increase the risk of accidents. However, officials have not yet confirmed any link between the crash and the event. It remains unclear if the Nitro Bass Boat involved was participating in the tournament or simply operating nearby.
As the community reels from the tragic news, ALEA is continuing its work to determine exactly what happened and how such a devastating incident occurred. Boating safety advocates are already calling for renewed attention to watercraft regulations and the need for vigilance while operating boats, especially during busy periods like tournaments or holiday weekends.
Local officials have expressed their sorrow over the loss of life and have praised the coordinated efforts of all agencies that responded to the crash. Their swift action, though unable to prevent the fatalities, was crucial in recovering the victims and securing the scene for investigation.
As the story develops, ALEA has promised to release further updates as they become available. For now, the focus remains on honoring the memories of Joey Broom, John Clark, and Jeffrey Little — three men whose lives were cut short in a tragic moment on Smith Lake.