Authorities confirmed that at least seven people lost their lives when part of a ferry dock collapsed on Sapelo Island during a Gullah-Geechee fall celebration, where about 20 people were present on the gangway. Emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene, revealing a chaotic situation where eight individuals were hospitalized, with several in critical condition. The incident was especially tragic as it disrupted an event centered around celebrating the culture and history of the island’s Gullah-Geechee community.
Reports indicated that the gangway suddenly collapsed without any apparent reason, leading to people plunging into the water as rescue efforts swiftly commenced. Tyler Jones, a spokesperson with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, confirmed that there was no collision with any boat, emphasizing the unexpected nature of the incident. U.S. Coast Guard and other agencies used helicopters and boats equipped with side-scanning sonar in their ongoing search operations, including for those who fell into the water.
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