Tragedy Strikes: Fatal Ferry Dock Collapse on Sapelo Island Claims 7 Lives

Tragically, seven individuals lost their lives and many others sustained injuries following the failure of a ferry dock walkway on Sapelo Island (Georgia USA).

This unfortunate event took place on Saturday, October 19th, during a Cultural Day festival that aimed to celebrate the Gullah-Geechee community of the island, known for its commitment to preserving African heritage.

The walkway collapse occurred on the island, situated approximately 60 miles south of Savannah and reachable only by ferry. Around 20 people plunged into the Atlantic waters when the aluminum gangway failed, igniting a comprehensive search and rescue mission facilitated by the U.S. Coast Guard and local emergency services.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which manages the dock and ferry operations, reported seven fatalities and disclosed that three individuals remain in critical condition. DNR Commissioner Walter Rabon indicated that the gangway, which was installed in 2021, seemed to have experienced a structural failure; however, an investigation is in progress.

Search operations employed sonar-equipped boats and helicopters, with contributions from the U.S. Coast Guard, McIntosh County Fire Department, and various other agencies participating in the rescue efforts. This incident has overshadowed the Gullah-Geechee Cultural Day, an annual celebration honoring the island’s historically isolated African American community.