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

SAPELO ISLAND, Ga. (WTOC/Gray News) – Authorities say 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 catwalk collapse at Marsh Landing Dock Saturday afternoon. At least seven people died. Six people were seriously injured and two were airlifted to area hospitals, WTOC reported.

At least 20 people fell into the water when the footbridge collapsed around 3:50 p.m. The DNR said it has deployed boats equipped with side-scan sonar and helicopters to help rescue and recover people in the water.

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

The incident remains under investigation.

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp issued a statement following the pier 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 all Georgians to join us in praying for those missing, for those still in danger, and for their families.

President Joe Biden also released a statement on the collapse:

“We are heartbroken to learn of the collapse of the ferry dock walkway on Sapelo Island, Georgia. What should have been a joyful celebration of Gullah-Geechee culture and history turned into tragedy and devastation. Jill and I mourn those who lost their lives and pray for the injured and all those still missing. We also thank the first responders on site. My team is in contact with state and local authorities, and we are ready to provide any assistance that would be helpful to the community.

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