MONTGOMERY – Today, 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. 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.