The Guntersville Open Tournament Team has announced the cancellation of the annual Rex Chambers Black Friday Tournament and the New Year’s Day Bass Tournament on Lake Guntersville. This decision follows a tragic multi-boat crash on Smith Lake during a Major League Fishing tournament, which resulted in three deaths and three injuries.
Tournament Director James Cornelius explained, “It’s unfortunate that something like this has to bring an end to such a long-standing tradition, but we have to protect ourselves and do what’s right.” The team emphasized the risks and responsibilities involved in running public events on the water as a key factor in their decision.
The crash on Smith Lake occurred on April 16, 2025, involving a Center Console vessel and a Nitro Bass Boat. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) identified Joey M. Broom, 58, of Altoona, as one of the deceased. John K. Clark, 44, of Cullman, and Jeffrey C. Little, 62, of Mississippi, also died in the incident. The operator of the Center Console vessel, Gary W. Holcomb, 51, and passenger Luke H. Morgan, 30, were injured and hospitalized…