At least 7 dead after ferry dock collapses on Georgia’s Sapelo Island, authorities say

SAPELO ISLAND, Ga. (WTOC/Gray News) - Authorities said at least seven people were killed when part of a ferry dock collapsed on Georgia’s Sapelo Island.

According to the Georgia DNR, multiple agencies responded to a gangway collapse at Marsh Landing Dock on Saturday afternoon. At least seven people died. Six people were critically injured, and two were flown to area hospitals, WTOC reported.

At least 20 people went into the water when the gangway collapsed around 3:50 p.m. The DNR said they deployed boats with side-scan sonar and helicopters to help rescue and recover those in the water.

This comes as many visited the island for 2024 Cultural Day, a Geechee Gullah celebration.

The incident is under investigation.

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp released a statement following the dock collapse.

In a social media post, he wrote, “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 us in praying for those lost, for those still in harm’s way, and for their families.”

President Joe Biden also sent out a statement about the collapse:

“We are heartbroken to learn about the ferry dock walkway collapse on Georgia’s Sapelo Island. What should have been a joyous celebration of Gullah-Geechee culture and history instead turned into tragedy and devastation. Jill and I mourn those who lost their lives, and we pray for the injured and anyone still missing. We are also grateful to the first responders at the scene. My team is in touch with state and local officials, and we stand ready to provide any and all assistance that would be helpful to the community.”

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