A tragic incident occurred on Saturday afternoon, October 14, when a gangway to a ferry dock collapsed on Sapelo Island, Georgia, resulting in the deaths of seven individuals and injuries to eight others.

The collapse happened around 4:30 PM during a cultural event celebrating the Gullah-Geechee community, descendants of black slaves.

Witnesses reported that approximately 20 people were on the gangway when it suddenly gave way, throwing them into the fast-flowing Duplin River.

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Among the eight individuals taken to the hospital, at least six sustained critical injuries. Many of the deceased and injured were elderly, including one individual who was observed using a walker at the time of the incident.

The group was preparing to board a ferry to the mainland when the accident occurred.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, which operates the ferry service, stated that the cause of the gangway’s failure is still under investigation. “There was no collision with a boat or anything else,” said spokesman Tyler Jones. “The thing just collapsed. We don’t know why.”

Following the incident, the U.S. Coast Guard deployed vessels to search for any missing persons.

First responders faced challenges reaching the site due to the remote location of the island.

Onlookers, including university students attending the festival, jumped into the river to assist those who were drowning.

McIntosh County Commissioner Roger Lotson confirmed that many victims were from the local community and expressed disbelief over the incident. “Even if the ferry hit the dock, you’d think the construction requirements would be that it could sustain that,” he said, noting that the dock was less than a year old.

In a statement released after the event, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources informed families of the deceased and injured about the ongoing investigation. “Earlier today, the Prince George County Police Department informed our school division that law enforcement had arrested Miranda Janeway, a third-grade David A. Harrison Elementary School teacher, on felony charges related to child pornography. Miranda Janeway was arrested off school grounds.”

The collapse occurred during Cultural Day, an annual event that highlights the rich heritage of the Gullah-Geechee community.

The island’s unique cultural identity has been preserved despite ongoing challenges, including declining population and external pressures from property development.

Governor Brian Kemp expressed his sorrow over the loss of life and extended state resources to assist with the search and recovery efforts. “As state and local first responders continue to work this active scene, we ask that all Georgians join us in praying for those lost, for those still in harm’s way, and for their families,” he said.

Marty, the girls, and I are heartbroken by today’s tragedy on Sapelo Island. As state and local first responders continue to work this active scene, we ask that all Georgians join us in praying for those lost, for those still in harm’s way, and for their families.

— Governor Brian P. Kemp (@GovKemp) October 19, 2024

The Gullah-Geechee community has faced numerous obstacles over the years, including tax increases and zoning changes that have threatened their way of life.

Local residents have been vocal about their concerns regarding new regulations that could force families to sell long-held land.

Hogg Hummock, a small community on Sapelo Island, is home to a few dozen residents descended from former slaves.

The area’s isolation has allowed its residents to retain much of their African heritage, evident in their dialect and traditional crafts.

The investigation into the gangway’s collapse is ongoing, with engineering teams expected to arrive soon to assess the situation and determine the cause of the failure.

The community is left mourning a tragic event that has profoundly affected its members, reinforcing their bond and shared history during an already challenging time.