Seven dead as crowded ferry dock collapses during celebration

A tragic incident occurred on Sapelo Island in Georgia during a cultural celebration on Saturday. Local authorities reported that at least seven individuals lost their lives when a section of a ferry dock collapsed. The dock, which is operated by Georgia's department of natural resources, saw around 20 people fall into the water when the gangway gave way. This unfortunate event took place at approximately 4:30 PM local time, coinciding with a gathering of people who were there to celebrate their culture. Many individuals were injured and required hospitalization, prompting ongoing search and rescue operations. President Joe Biden expressed his condolences for the lives lost and stated that he and his wife Jill are praying for the injured and for anyone who remains unaccounted for. The cause of the dock's collapse is still under investigation. The walkway that fell connected the outer dock, where passengers board the ferry, to the dock on the shore. Governor Brian Kemp of Georgia expressed his heartbreak over the tragedy and urged for prayers for those who were lost, those still in danger, and their families. He has also dispatched state resources to assist in the search, rescue, and recovery efforts. Representative Buddy Carter shared on social media that President Biden's team is prepared to offer any necessary assistance to the community. Local officials have secured the area, and an investigation into the incident is currently underway. Tyler Jones, a spokesperson for Georgia's National Resources Department, clarified that there was no collision involved in the incident. He stated, 'The thing just collapsed. We don’t know why. ' Pastor Jerald Thomas from the nearby Elm Grove Church arrived at the scene to provide support. He noted that the community quickly came together to offer the necessary help during this difficult time. The celebration was meant to honor the island's community of Hogg Hummock, which is home to a small number of black residents. Hogg Hummock was established by newly-freed former enslaved individuals from coastal Georgia plantations who settled on Sapelo Island after the Civil War. President Biden remarked that what should have been a joyful celebration of Gullah-Geechee culture and history instead turned into a moment of tragedy and devastation. The Gullah and Geechee people are descendants of enslaved island populations in the South, and their communities are spread along the coast from North Carolina to Florida. Sapelo Island is accessible only by boat from the mainland.