At least 7 people killed after Georgia ferry dock footbridge collapses: officials

At least seven people were killed in a freak accident on Saturday after the footbridge of a ferry dock in Georgia collapsed, according to local authorities.

Part of the Marsh Landing Dock on Sapelo Island collapsed around 4:30 p.m., sending several people into the water, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (Georgia DNR). Sapelo Island is a barrier island located in McIntosh County and is only accessible by ferry.

“There have been seven confirmed deaths,” Georgia DNR spokesperson Tyler Jones told reporters, according to FOX 5 Atlanta. “Several people were transported to area hospitals and we continue to search for individuals in the water.”

People reportedly traveled to the island to celebrate the Gullah-Geechee community, according to a White House press release.

Child dies at Halloween attraction in prank gone wrong: ‘horrible accident’

“We are heartbroken to learn of the collapse of the ferry dock walkway on Sapelo Island, Georgia,” President Biden said in a statement. “What should have been a joyful celebration of Gullah-Geechee culture and history turned into tragedy and devastation.”

Read on the Fox News app

“Jill and I mourn those who lost their lives, and we pray for the injured and all those who are still missing,” he added.

In a statement, the Georgia DNR said at least 20 people had fallen into the water. The number of injured is not known at this time.

Man dies in freak accident involving frozen burgers: ‘hard to hear’

The Georgia DNR reports that multiple agencies are involved in the rescue mission.

“The Georgia DNR and several other emergency agencies have deployed side-scan sonar-equipped boats and helicopters for search and rescue missions,” the statement added. “The gateway has been secured on Sapelo Island and the incident is currently under investigation.”

The McIntosh County Sheriff’s Office said on Facebook that it was actively assisting those at the scene.

“We have set up a family reunification point at Elm Grove Baptist Church,” the department said. “We are asking anyone looking for family members to check there first. We are also asking people to be aware of arriving emergency vehicles.”

Authorities are actively investigating the incident.

Original article source: At least 7 people killed after Georgia ferry dock footbridge collapses: officials