A tragic accident occurred on Sapelo Island, Georgia, claiming the lives of at least seven individuals after part of a ferry dock collapsed during a fall celebration held by the local Gullah-Geechee community. This community, made up of Black descendants of enslaved people, had gathered for what was meant to be a joyous occasion.
Eight people were transported to local hospitals, with at least six suffering from critical injuries. Search and rescue teams, including the U.S. Coast Guard and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, scoured the waters for survivors, according to spokesperson Tyler Jones. As of now, three of the injured remain hospitalized, as confirmed by Walter Rabon, commissioner of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
The incident is being described as a “catastrophic failure” of an aluminum gangway that connected the outer dock to the mainland. Rabon stated at a news conference that the situation appears to be a structural failure, noting that such a gangway should require minimal maintenance. Engineers and construction specialists are expected to investigate the cause of the failure, particularly since the walkway was installed only in 2021. Notably, there was no collision with a boat or other structure; the gangway simply collapsed without warning.
The dock, which had been rebuilt following a federal lawsuit settlement regarding accessibility standards, was in use by over 40 people at the time of the collapse. Among the deceased was a chaplain for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Importantly, none of those who lost their lives were residents of Sapelo Island.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp expressed his sorrow over the incident, urging Georgians to join in prayer for the victims and their families. President Joe Biden also offered condolences, stating that federal officials stand ready to assist as needed. He lamented that what should have been a celebration of Gullah-Geechee culture had turned into a tragedy.
Sapelo Island, located approximately 60 miles south of Savannah, is home to a small community known as Hogg Hummock, which was established by former enslaved individuals from a local cotton plantation. This tight-knit community, known for its strong bonds and rich heritage, has been facing ongoing challenges, including a declining population and legal battles over land use.
The Hogg Hummock community has a unique cultural identity, preserving elements of their African heritage, including dialect and traditional crafts. Despite its historical significance—Hogg Hummock was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1996—the area has seen increasing pressure from outside development and zoning changes that threaten the land held by families for generations. Residents are concerned that these changes could lead to rising property taxes and ultimately force them to sell their land.
As investigations into the dock collapse continue, the Sapelo Island community mourns the loss of life while grappling with the ongoing struggle to protect their heritage and land.
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