A gangway to a state-run passenger ferry on Georgia’s Sapelo Island collapsed on Sunday, plunging at least 20 people into the water. Seven fatalities have been confirmed, with multiple injuries reported.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the close-knit island community and beyond.
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which operates both the Sapelo Island Ferry and the Marsh Landing Dock, mobilized a large-scale search and rescue operation, coordinating efforts with local, state, and federal agencies including the Georgia State Patrol, McIntosh County Sheriff’s Office, McIntosh County Fire Department, and U.S. Coast Guard.
Law enforcement boats equipped with side-scan sonar and helicopters were deployed to locate missing individuals.
Sapelo Island is a state-protected barrier island that is only accisible by boat.
The investigation into the cause of the collapse is already underway. The gangway has been secured and transported to a specialized facility where the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) and the Critical Incident Reconstruction Team of the Georgia DNR will conduct a detailed analysis.
Early reports indicate that the gangway was last inspected in December 2023 by Crescent Equipment Company, with no issues detected at that time.
“We will continue to work with local, state, and federal agencies on the response and investigation to determine the cause of the collapse,” the DNR said in a statement.
The Sapelo Island Ferry, which had temporarily halted operations, was expected to resume service on Monday.
“Our hearts continue to go out to the victims, their families, and all of those involved in Saturday’s tragic occurrence on Sapelo Island,” said Walter Rabon, Commissioner of Georgia DNR. “We will allow the investigators to take their time and conduct a thorough investigation.”
“Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to the families affected by this tragedy and the McIntosh community during this difficult time,” the Camden County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement.
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