Seven people are believed dead after the collapse of a gangway at Marsh Landing Dock on Sapelo island in Georgia this Saturday afternoon, according to the state’s Department of Natural Resources.
Georgia DNR spokesperson Melissa Cummings confirmed to CNN that one of the deceased individuals was a DNR chaplain.
A press release said that multiple local, state and federal agencies responded to the scene at approximately 4:30 p.m. These agencies deployed boats equipped with side-scan sonar and helicopters.
At least 20 people went into the water when the gangway collapsed, the DNR said. In addition to the seven fatalities, there are an unknown number of injuries. During a news conference, Georgia DNR Capt. Chris Hodge said six people were critically injured and that two were taken by air to hospitals for treatment.
“The gangway has been secured on Sapelo Island and the incident is currently under investigation,” said the DNR. “Georgia DNR will continue to work in coordination with local, state, and federal agencies, including Georgia State Patrol, McIntosh County Sheriff’s Office, McIntosh County Fire Department, and U.S. Coast Guard, among others. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all involved, including the entire Sapelo Island Community.”
CNN reported that the collapse occurred as crowds gathered for a celebration of its Gullah-Geechee community of Black slave descendants. Per the Sapelo Island Cultural and Revitalization Society, it is home to Hogg Hummock, “the last intact Geechee/Gullah community in the Sea Islands of Georgia,” that is comprised of “direct descendants of slaves brought to Sapelo Island in 1802.”
According to the Southern Poverty Law Center, the island was hit hard recently by Hurricane Helene.
A McIntosh County commissioner told CNN affiliate WTOC that the gangway collapsed after a boat struck it. WSB, another CNN affiliate, said the DNR has not revealed what caused the deck to collapse.
“Marty, the girls, and I are heartbroken by today’s tragedy on Sapelo Island. As state and local first responders continue to work this active scene, we ask that all Georgians join us in praying for those lost, for those still in harm’s way, and for their families,” said Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp in an X post.
McIntosh County Office of the Sheriff set up a family re-unification point at Elm Grove Baptist Church, said a Facebook post. It asked anyone looking for missing family members to check in.