Seven people died and six were critically injured when a gangway at a ferry dock on Georgia’s Sapelo Island collapsed on Saturday. Georgia Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Walter Rabon stated that at least 40 people were on the gangway at the time, with half falling into the water. The U.S. Coast Guard and state and local agencies responded to the “catastrophic failure.” An ongoing investigation revealed that the gangway collapsed in the middle while passengers were boarding the ferry. Three people remain in critical condition as of Sunday morning, and the Coast Guard was still actively searching for survivors.
The Sapelo Island Cultural and Revitalization Society was hosting a celebration of Gullah Geechee culture on the island when the collapse occurred. This centuries-old culture, maintained by descendants of West and Central African slaves along the Southeastern coast, was being celebrated by upwards of 700 people. President Joe Biden offered federal resources to aid those affected by the tragedy, expressing sorrow for what was meant to be a joyous event turning into devastation. U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock and Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp also expressed their condolences and heartfelt prayers for the victims and their families.
A reunification center was set up at Elm Grove Baptist Church in nearby Meridian, where the Sapelo Island community was grateful for the outpouring of love and support. The investigation into the collapse indicated a structural failure of the gangway. Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp, along with his family, were deeply saddened by the tragedy on Sapelo Island, emphasizing the need for all Georgians to come together in prayer for those affected. Sapelo Island, located about 72 miles south of Savannah on the Atlantic Coast, is a popular destination for ferries and research vessels. The dock is used for public ferry vessels, the University of Georgia’s research trawler, and some small boats.
Several survivors of the collapse remained in critical condition as of Sunday morning, prompting an ongoing search effort by the Coast Guard. Sapelo Island, known for its rich Gullah Geechee culture, attracts visitors from around the region. The tragedy occurred during a celebration of this cultural heritage, turning what was meant to be a joyous occasion into a somber day of mourning. The outpouring of support and offers of federal resources from President Joe Biden and other officials underscored the gravity of the situation. The investigation into the structural failure of the gangway continued, with authorities striving to determine the cause of the collapse to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As the Sapelo Island community grappled with the aftermath of the tragedy, they expressed gratitude for the support they received in the wake of the collapse. The Gullah Geechee community, with its deep roots in African traditions, faced a heartbreaking turn of events on what was meant to be a day of celebration and cultural pride. The loss of life and injuries sustained in the incident highlighted the urgent need for thorough investigation and accountability. State and local officials, along with federal agencies, were working together to ensure the safety of ferry passengers and prevent such disasters in the future. The resilience and unity displayed in the face of tragedy reflected the strength of the community and the shared grief over the lives lost on that fateful day.
