Saraland, AL (June 16, 2025) – A tragic boating accident on Sunday, June 15, claimed the life of a Wilmer woman and left two others injured.
Authorities say 27-year-old Brittney Sherman was a passenger in a boat that collided with another vessel near Bayou Sara. The boat was being operated by a 19-year-old man from Lucedale. At the time of the crash, Sherman’s husband, 30-year-old Cody Sherman, and their 4-year-old son were also onboard.
Both Cody and the child were transported to a local hospital for treatment. Their current conditions have not been released. The second boat involved in the collision was driven by a 52-year-old man from Wilmer. He and the 19-year-old operator were not hurt.
Emergency crews responded to the scene around 5:35 p.m. Sunday. A massive search followed after Brittney Sherman was reported missing. Crews from multiple agencies, including the Mobile Police Department, Daphne Search and Rescue, and the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), worked through the night to locate her. Sherman’s body was found Monday morning around 11 a.m., approximately 100 yards from where she entered the water.
ALEA is leading the ongoing investigation into what caused the deadly crash. We extend our heartfelt wishes for healing and recovery to those impacted by this heartbreaking incident.
Boating Accidents in Mobile County
Boating accidents, such as the recent collision in Saraland, can be devastating. Unlike car crashes, boating collisions happen on open water, often far from
Alabama’s many waterways make boating a popular activity, but accidents are more common than many realize. According to state data, operator inexperience, distraction, and alcohol use are leading causes of boat crashes. In some cases, like the one near Bayou Sara, multiple vessels may be involved, raising complex questions about liability and fault.
Personal injury and wrongful death cases involving boats are often more difficult to investigate than land-based crashes. They may involve different laws and require specialized knowledge. That’s why having a skilled personal injury attorney can be essential. Lawyers can collect witness statements, work with maritime investigators, and analyze navigation patterns to determine what went wrong.
Injured victims may be entitled to compensation for hospital bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma. In fatal cases, surviving family members may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim. These claims can help cover funeral expenses, loss of future earnings, and loss of companionship.
At Maloney-Lyons, we are experienced in handling boating accident cases across Mobile County and throughout Alabama. We understand the emotional and financial stress these events bring. Our legal team is ready to offer support, investigate thoroughly, and fight for the compensation victims and their families deserve.
If you or a loved one was injured in a boating accident in Mobile or anywhere in Alabama, don’t wait to get help. Call Maloney-Lyons today at 251-225-6105 for a free, no-obligation consultation.
