SAPELO ISLAND, Ga. (WTOC) – At least seven people were killed after a ferry dock collapsed on Sapelo Island Saturday afternoon, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. They also say six people were seriously injured and two were life-flighted to area hospitals.

The DNR said at least 20 people entered the water when the Marsh Landing Dock gangway collapsed around 3:50 p.m. The gangway has since been secured to the island.

The DNR said they deployed boats with side-scan sonar and helicopters to help rescue and recover people in the water.

This is because many visited the island for the 2024 Cultural Day, a Geechee Gullah celebration. Sapelo Island Cultural and Revitalization Society or SICARS hosts the event every fall to celebrate Geeche culture through arts, food, crafts and entertainment.

Local, state and national leaders expressed their thoughts and prayers via social media posts following the tragedy.

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp released a statement following the dock collapse.

In a social media post, Governor Kemp wrote: “Marty, the girls and I are heartbroken by today’s tragedy on Sapelo Island. As state and local first responders continue to work at this active site, we ask that all Georgians join us in praying for those lost, for those still in danger, and for their families.”

Congressman Buddy Carter posted on social media thanking the community and first responders for their efforts during the tragedy.

Congressman Carter wrote: “My thoughts and prayers are with Sapelo Island today, following the unimaginable tragedy at the ferry dock. Governor Kemp has deployed state resources to assist with search, rescue and recovery efforts. Thank you to the first responders and everyone who stepped up in the wake of this heartbreaking loss. Let us come together as a community to support each other during this difficult time.”

President Joe Biden also sent a statement about the collapse:

“We are heartbroken to hear about the pedestrian bridge collapse on Georgia’s Sapelo Island. What should have been a joyful 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 on site. My team is in contact with state and local officials and we stand ready to provide any assistance that could be helpful to the community.”

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