Three people were killed while three others were injured after a multi-boat crash occurred Wednesday morning during a Major League Fishing tournament event on Smith Lake in Cullman County.

According to a statement issued by MLF, one of the individuals involved in the accident was a professional angler from a neighboring state.

“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.”

“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.”

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While the tragedy during the tournament was devastating, serious accidents on Smith Lake are relatively rare. For one of Alabama’s leading elected officials, however, the accident hits close to home.

In a social media message, Alabama Senate Pro Tem Garlan Gudger (R-Cullman), who was seriously injured in a jet-ski-related accident that required him to be airlifted to UAB Hospital in Birmingham and undergo a surgical procedure last summer, offered his support and prayers to all involved in the crash.

“We wanted to let the families know, the people that were in the Major League Fishing wreck on Smith Lake, that our prayers are with you and your families,” Gudger said.

“We know what that is like, being in an accident nine months ago and being airlifted to UAB and placed in the ICU. How tough that is, not only on those people who are there, but also on their families. We want to make sure that they know that we love them and that God is with them. We’re continuing to pray for them, and it’s heartfelt that we are with them.”

MLF will release additional details on the crash at a later time.

The fishing tournament has now been cancelled. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency will continue to lead the investigation.

Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten