At least seven people killed after ferry port gangway collapse in Georgia

At least seven people were killed in a freak accident after the gangway collapsed at a ferry port in Georgia on Saturday, according to local authorities.

According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (Georgia DNR), part of the Marsh Landing Dock on Sapelo Island collapsed around 4:30 p.m., sending several people into the water. Sapelo Island is a barrier island in McIntosh County and is only accessible by ferry.

“Seven fatalities have been confirmed,” Georgia DNR spokesperson Tyler Jones told reporters, according to FOX 5 Atlanta. “Several people have been transported to area hospitals, and we continue to search the water for individuals.”

People reportedly traveled to the island to celebrate the Gullah-Geechee community, according to a White House press release.

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“We are heartbroken to learn of the collapse of the ferry port walkway on Georgia’s Sapelo Island,” President Biden said in a statement. “What should have been a joyful celebration of Gullah-Geechee culture and history instead turned into tragedy and devastation.”

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“Jill and I mourn those who have lost their lives, and we pray for the injured and anyone still missing,” he added.

In a news release, the Georgia DNR said at least 20 people fell into the water. The number of injured is currently unknown.

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The Georgia DNR reports multiple agencies are involved in the rescue mission.

“Georgia DNR and multiple other emergency responders deployed boats equipped with side-scan sonar and helicopters for search and rescue missions,” the statement said. “The gangway on Sapelo Island has been secured and the incident is currently under investigation.”

The McIntosh County Sheriff’s Office said on Facebook that it is actively assisting people on the scene.

“We have established a family reunion point at Elm Grove Baptist Church,” the department said. “We ask anyone looking for family members to look there first. We also ask people to be aware of emergency vehicles coming in.”

Authorities are actively investigating the incident.

Original article source: At least seven people killed after ferry port gangway collapse in Georgia