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Special to the Advance

Secretary of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Hal Taylor on Wednesday 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.

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.

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,” Taylor said in a release.

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.