Seven people killed in a gangway collapse at the Marsh Landing Dock on Sapelo Island, according to Georgia authorities.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the incident, leaving at least seven dead and an unknown number of injuries.
At least 20 people went into the water when the gangway collapsed, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (Georgia DNR) said in its statement.
“At this time, there is believed to be seven fatalities and an unknown number of injuries,” Georgia DNR added in an update.
A question was raised about the last time the gangway was inspected during the press conference regarding the gangway collapse at Marsh Landing Dock on Sapelo Island.
“The Georgia Department of Natural Resources can confirm that the gangway was inspected less than a year ago, in December 2023, by Crescent Equipment Company. We will continue to work with local, state and federal agencies on the response and investigation to determine the cause of the collapse,” the department said in a news release on Saturday October 20.
In response to the incident, Georgia DNR and multiple other emergency agencies deployed boats, equipped with side-scan sonar, and helicopters for search and rescue missions.
As informed, the gangway has been secured on Sapelo Island and the incident is currently under investigation.
According to Georgia DNR, “Sapelo Island Ferry will resume operations on Monday, October 21.”
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to all involved, including the entire Sapelo Island Community,” the department said in the statement.
Vice President Kamala Harris, issued a statement late on Saturday, saying the Administration was in close touch with state and local officials, and had offered any federal support needed.
“Tonight, Doug and I are praying for all those who were killed or injured in the collapse of the ferry dock walkway on Georgia’s Sapelo Island, as well as their family members and loved ones,” Harris said, referring to her husband, Douglas Emhoff.
“As always, we are deeply grateful for the heroism of our first responders. Even in the face of this heartbreak, we will continue to celebrate and honor the history, culture, and resilience of the Gullah-Geechee community,” she added.
As reported, the Georgia DNR will continue to work in coordination with local, state, and federal agencies, including Georgia State Patrol, McIntosh County Sheriff’s Office, McIntosh County Fire Department, and U.S. Coast Guard, among others.
Video credit: Georgia Department of Natural Resources (Georgia DNR)
