A peaceful fishing trip in Coffee County took a tragic turn on the evening of February 13, 2025, when a boat capsized, resulting in the death of one man and the rescue of another. The incident occurred around 5:00 p.m. near Highway 84 in New Brockton, a small town in Coffee County, Alabama. The two men involved in the trip were identified as 21-year-old Byron Ja’Kee Burkes and his companion, who has not yet been named by authorities.
According to Coffee County Sheriff Scott Byrd, the two men were out fishing on a pond when their boat suddenly overturned, leaving them stranded in the cold waters. One of the men, whose name has not been released, managed to cling to the overturned boat, likely using it as a flotation device while awaiting help. The other man, Burkes, tragically drowned in the water, unable to survive the cold and tumultuous conditions.
Emergency responders were quickly alerted to the situation, and teams of firefighters and first responders rushed to the scene to assist. The rescue operation was fraught with danger, as the cold temperatures and rapidly darkening skies added urgency to the search efforts. The firefighter teams, braving the freezing waters, worked swiftly to reach the survivor. After a tense few moments, they were able to safely bring him to shore, where he was immediately assessed by paramedics. He was later transported to the hospital for treatment, though it was not immediately clear if he had sustained any injuries during the ordeal.
As the sun set and the night grew colder, the search for Burkes continued. By this time, darkness had fully descended upon the pond, adding an additional layer of difficulty to the search and recovery operation. After hours of effort, Burkes’ body was finally recovered from the water around 8:00 p.m., with Coffee County Coroner Arnold Woodham confirming the grim news. The loss of Burkes has left family, friends, and the local community mourning the untimely death of a young man, whose life was tragically cut short during what was meant to be a relaxing outing.
At this time, authorities have not released additional details regarding the cause of the boat’s capsizing or what led to the tragic events that unfolded. Investigations into the circumstances of the incident are ongoing, and more information is expected to be made available as authorities work to piece together the events leading up to the capsizing.
While the immediate cause of the boat’s overturning remains unknown, incidents like this serve as a stark reminder of the dangers that can be present when venturing out on the water, especially in colder months. Even the most experienced boaters can encounter unexpected situations, and it is critical to always take precautions to ensure the safety of everyone on board. It is not clear if the men were wearing life jackets at the time of the incident, but such equipment is widely recognized as one of the most important safety measures to prevent drowning in case of a capsizing.
In the days following the tragedy, residents of New Brockton and the surrounding Coffee County community have expressed their condolences and offered support to the families of the two men involved. Local churches, organizations, and citizens have been rallying around the families of the victims, offering their prayers and assistance during this difficult time. The grief felt by those who knew Burkes and the survivor is palpable, as many continue to process the shock and sadness that has followed the fatal accident.
The incident has also raised awareness about the importance of water safety, particularly in areas where fishing and boating are popular recreational activities. Local authorities have used this tragedy to remind the public of the risks associated with water activities and to stress the importance of preparation. Before embarking on any trip, especially one that involves boating or fishing in bodies of water, it is crucial to make sure that all necessary safety equipment is in place. This includes life jackets, first-aid kits, and proper communication tools. Being prepared for any emergency is essential to preventing tragedies such as the one that occurred in Coffee County.
While the specific details surrounding the capsizing are still under investigation, authorities have emphasized the need for boaters to respect the water and its potential dangers. Factors such as weather, water conditions, and the condition of the boat can all contribute to an accident, and each must be taken into consideration before heading out. Additionally, ensuring that all passengers are well-informed about safety protocols, including how to respond in the event of a capsizing or emergency, can make all the difference in ensuring a safe outing.
As for the survivor, the emotional toll of the incident is likely to be significant. Losing a friend or companion in such a sudden and tragic manner can be an overwhelming experience, and the survivor may face a long journey of healing, both physically and mentally. Support systems such as counseling, community outreach, and family assistance will play a vital role in helping the survivor process the trauma of the event and cope with the loss of a close friend.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, community members and officials are banding together to support the families and ensure that such incidents are less likely to occur in the future. Local authorities, including the Coffee County Sheriff’s Department, continue to investigate the events leading up to the capsizing in an effort to better understand how the tragedy unfolded. While the recovery of Burkes’ body has brought closure to the immediate search efforts, the investigation will continue to shed light on the cause of the accident and provide answers for the loved ones affected by this heartbreaking incident.
In closing, the drowning death of Byron Ja’Kee Burkes serves as a painful reminder of the risks involved in water-based activities. While fishing and boating are popular pastimes, they carry inherent dangers that can turn deadly in a moment’s notice. As the community mourns the loss of a young life, it is essential to honor Burkes’ memory by continuing to raise awareness about water safety and ensuring that future tragedies are prevented through education, preparation, and respect for the water. Our thoughts are with Burkes’ family, friends, and the survivor as they navigate the difficult road ahead.
