The incident occurred in the afternoon, when the gangway leading to the ferry suddenly gave way, sending more than 20 people into the water.
Rescue efforts were immediately launched by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the U.S. Coast Guard, and local emergency services. The quick response of both authorities and bystanders is credited with preventing further loss of life. According to DNR officials, the injured were transported to nearby hospitals, with six people reported in critical condition.
The victims, all over the age of 70, have been identified as Jacqueline Crews Carter, 75; Cynthia Gibbs, 74; Carlotta McIntosh, 93; Isaiah Thomas, 79; William Johnson, Jr., 73; and Queen Welch, 76. They were all Georgia residents.
Recent Inception in 2023
The dock's gangway, completed in November 2021, underwent its most recent inspection in December 2023 by Crescent Equipment Company. Commissioner Walter Rabon of the Georgia DNR noted that the structure had passed regular maintenance checks, but further investigation is underway to determine what caused the collapse. Rabon emphasized that while daily visual inspections were conducted, more thorough examinations under the gangway were not routine.
Authorities continue to search for answers and ensure the safety of the site as investigators work to understand how many people were on the gangway at the time of the collapse and why the incident occurred.
First 911 Call at 03:50 P.M.
Authorities received the first 911 call about the ferry dock collapse at Sapelo Island’s visitor landing at approximately 3:50 p.m. on Saturday. The collapse triggered a large-scale emergency response, involving local authorities, the Georgia State Patrol, the U.S. Coast Guard, and sheriff’s deputies from McIntosh and Camden Counties, along with the McIntosh County Fire Department
Rescue teams used boats equipped with sonar and helicopters to search for and assist those who had fallen into the water. By Sunday, Georgia Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Walter Rabon confirmed that everyone entering the water had been accounted for.
An engineering and construction team is set to assist in the investigation to determine the cause of the gangway collapse.
US President Joe Biden expressed his condolences in a statement released by the White House: "We are heartbroken to learn about the ferry dock walkway collapse on Georgia's Sapelo Island. What should have been a joyous celebration of Gullah-Geechee culture and history instead turned into tragedy and devastation. Jill and I mourn those who lost their lives, and we pray for the injured and anyone still missing. We are also grateful to the first responders at the scene. My team is in touch with state and local officials, and we stand ready to provide any assistance that would be helpful to the community."
Vice President Kamala Harris also released a statement, expressing her prayers for those affected by the tragedy.
