ALEA troopers investigate 6 traffic fatalities, 1 boating fatality during Memorial Day weekend
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Special to the News
On Wednesday Secretary of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Hal Taylor released the traffic and boating statistics for the 2024 Memorial Day weekend, during which both the Agency’s Highway and Marine Patrol divisions were actively engaged in enforcement and safety operations throughout the entire holiday period.
Between 12:01 a.m. Friday, May 24, and midnight Monday, May 27, troopers investigated six traffic deaths. Sunday, May 26, was the only day during the extended holiday weekend with zero traffic fatalities.
During the rest of the period, four drivers, one passenger and one motorcyclist were killed. Three of the five individuals traveling in vehicles equipped with seat belts were buckled up, and the motorcyclist was using a helmet.
The fatal crashes occurred in Autauga, Calhoun, Covington, Lauderdale, Marshall, and Walker counties. These tragic incidents underline the importance of road safety and the ongoing need for vigilance and adherence to traffic laws by all motorists.
Additionally, ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division investigated one boating fatality over the Memorial Day weekend which occurred on Monday, May 27, on Logan Martin Lake. The incident serves
as a solemn reminder of the critical need for safety measures and precautions while enjoying Alabama’s waterways.
ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor expressed condolences to the loved ones affected by these losses and emphasized the Agency’s commitment to improving safety.
“Our hearts go out to the families and friends of those who lost their lives this weekend,” he said. “These tragedies highlight the need for continued enforcement and public education to prevent such incidents in the future.”
ALEA’s efforts over the Memorial Day weekend included increased patrols, driver license checkpoints and public awareness campaigns aimed at reducing fatalities and injuries. The Agency’s Marine Patrol Division issued 868 Marine Safety Warnings, conducted 740 vessel inspections and 53 vessel assists. They also reached a new record of making 22 Boating Under the Influence (BUI) arrests in one weekend.
ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division investigated 324 traffic crashes, issued 350 seat belt citations and made 29 Driving Under the Influence (DUI) arrests. Despite these efforts, the Agency remains committed to enhancing its strategies and working with the community to promote safer driving and boating practices.
Additionally, ALEA’s Aviation Unit, in conjunction with Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Fire departments, participated in the Rescue Swimmer Detail. Aviation performed 12 patrol flights, responded to six calls for service which included a boater in distress, a kayak in distress, a capsized jet ski, and three swimmers in distress. While on a patrol flight on May 25, the crew chief spotted a swimmer in distress and deployed a rescue swimmer to assist the victim to shore.
As the busy summer season continues, ALEA encourages all residents and visitors to stay vigilant, follow traffic and boating regulations and prioritize safety to prevent future accidents. The agency will continue its “101 Days of Summer Safety” campaign to provide updates and work diligently to ensure the safety of everyone on Alabama’s roads and waterways.
Learn more about ALEA and the “101 Days of Summer Safety” at www.alea.gov.
