MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) has released the traffic and boating statistics for the 2024 Memorial Day weekend. The Agency's Highway and Marine Patrol Divisions were actively involved in enforcement and safety operations throughout the holiday period.
From 12:01 a.m. Friday, May 24, to midnight Monday, May 27, Troopers investigated six traffic deaths. On Sunday, May 26, marked the only day with zero traffic deaths during the extended weekend. However, the remaining days saw four drivers, one passenger, and one motorcyclist lose their lives in accidents. Among these victims, ALEA confirms that three out of five people in vehicles with seat belts were buckled up, while the motorcyclist had been wearing a helmet. The fatal crashes occurred in Autauga, Calhoun, Covington, Lauderdale, Marshall, and Walker counties. Additionally, ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division reported one boating death on Monday, May 27, at Logan Martin Lake.
Secretary Hal Taylor extended condolences to the families affected by these losses, assuring ALEA's commitment to enhancing safety measures. He stated, “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 Memorial Day efforts included increased patrols, driver license checkpoints, and public awareness campaigns aimed at reducing deaths and injuries. The Marine Patrol Division issued 868 Marine Safety Warnings, conducted 740 vessel inspections, and provided 53 vessel assists. Notably, a record 22 Boating Under the Influence (BUI) arrests were made. The Highway Patrol Division investigated 324 traffic crashes, issued 350 seat belt citations, and made 29 Driving Under the Influence arrests.
ALEA’s Aviation Unit, in collaboration with Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Fire Departments, participated in the Rescue Swimmer Detail. They conducted 12 patrol flights and responded to six distress calls, including incidents involving a distressed boater, kayak, jet ski, and swimmers. On May 25, during a patrol flight, a swimmer in distress was spotted, and a Rescue Swimmer was deployed to assist the victim to safety.
As the summer season continues, ALEA urges everyone to prioritize safety by following traffic and boating regulations. The Agency will continue its ‘101 Days of Summer Safety’. For more information, visit here.