By Marla Jones, Managing Editor • marla@southerntorch.com

SCOTTSBORO, Ala. — The number of confirmed fatalities from yesterday's fire at the Jackson County Park docks remains at 8, according to the latest statement from Scottsboro Fire & Rescue.

Officials are cautiously confident on that number, but work continues to ensure all victims are accounted for. Identification and names of the victims will be released by the Alabama State Fire Marshal's Office when available.

Two investigations are being conducted by the U.S. Coast Guard and Alabama State Fire Marshal.

The Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) is coordinating with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in monitoring the water quality and contaminants released.

Scottsboro Fire & Rescue advise citizens to avoid the area as operations continue.

The Jackson County Emergency Management Agency will be the primary media contact moving forward.