A devastating boating accident on Wednesday morning, April 16, 2025, has claimed the lives of Flint Davis, a competitive angler from Leesburg, Georgia, and Joey M. Broom, a 58-year-old man from Altoona, Alabama. The fatal crash occurred during Day 2 of the Major League Fishing (MLF) Tackle Warehouse Invitational on Lewis Smith Lake near the Miller Flats area in Cullman County.
According to Cullman County Coroner Jeremy Kilpatrick, one fatality was confirmed at the scene shortly after the incident occurred around 7 a.m. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) later identified the deceased as Joey M. Broom, who tragically died when the center console vessel he was riding in was struck by a Nitro bass boat.
Confirmed: MLF Competitor Flint Davis Involved in Crash
Major League Fishing released an official statement shortly after the incident, confirming that Flint Davis, a participating angler in the tournament, was involved in the serious multi-boat accident. MLF did not initially name any other individuals involved, pending official confirmation and family notifications. However, local sources later confirmed that Davis was also fatally injured in the incident.
In their statement, MLF said:
“Major League Fishing (MLF) confirms that a serious boating accident occurred this morning on Lewis Smith Lake during Day 2 of the Tackle Warehouse Invitational. The incident involved one of the event’s competing anglers, Flint Davis of Leesburg, Georgia.
Emergency personnel and local authorities responded immediately and remain on scene, managing the situation.
Our thoughts, prayers, and deepest concern are with everyone affected by this tragic incident.”
Details of the Crash
The accident occurred in the Miller Flats area, a well-known part of Lewis Smith Lake, which was hosting dozens of competitive anglers for the second day of the invitational tournament. According to ALEA, a Nitro bass boat—the type of vessel commonly used in high-level fishing competitions—collided with a center console vessel, which was not participating in the tournament. The crash resulted in multiple injuries, with Broom declared dead at the scene.
ALEA troopers, local first responders, and emergency personnel rushed to the area and continue to investigate the cause of the crash. As of now, investigators are requesting the public to avoid the crash site while they work to process the scene and gather further information.
MLF Suspends Remainder of Tournament
In light of the tragic event, Major League Fishing has officially canceled the final day of the Tackle Warehouse Invitational, which was scheduled to take place Thursday, April 17. The organization emphasized its commitment to supporting the families affected and stated that no additional details would be released until verified by law enforcement.
The decision to cancel the event was made out of “respect for those involved” and to prioritize the safety and emotional well-being of the MLF community.
A Community in Mourning
The accident has sent shockwaves through both the professional fishing world and the local communities in Georgia and Alabama. Flint Davis was a respected angler known for his competitive spirit and sportsmanship, while Joey Broom was a beloved member of the Altoona community. Their untimely deaths are being felt deeply by friends, family, and fans across the region.
Ongoing Investigation
ALEA continues to investigate the cause of the crash. Authorities are examining factors such as speed, visibility, vessel operation, and lake traffic at the time of the incident. More information is expected to be released once preliminary findings are completed.
Final Thoughts
This tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks associated with boating, even during well-organized and regulated events like the Major League Fishing Invitational. Both men lost their lives doing what they loved on the water, and their legacies will not soon be forgotten.
The thoughts and prayers of the entire MLF organization and the broader fishing community remain with the families of Flint Davis and Joey M. Broom during this time of unimaginable loss. Funeral arrangements and obituary memorials soon…
