Tragic Accident at Georgia Island Ferry Dock

On Saturday, a devastating incident occurred at a ferry dock on Sapelo Island, Georgia, resulting in the loss of seven lives. This unfortunate event took place during a festival dedicated to celebrating the rich heritage of the Gullah Geechee community, which comprises descendants of formerly enslaved individuals from the Southeastern United States.

Eyewitnesses waiting for the ferry reported a sudden, jarring noise as the gangway gave way. Many described hearing a loud crack followed by the horrifying sounds of screams and the sight of people struggling in the water. Emergency services are currently investigating the circumstances that led to this tragic collapse.

Understanding the Gullah Geechee Heritage

The annual festival on Sapelo Island, which honors the vibrant Gullah Geechee culture, drew numerous visitors from Georgia and beyond on Saturday. The island, only accessible by ferry and home to a small population of a few dozen year-round residents, serves as a focal point for Gullah Geechee traditions.

The Gullah Geechee people, descendants of enslaved West Africans, primarily inhabit the coastal regions of Georgia, South Carolina, and northern Florida. During the festival, attendees are treated to traditional Gullah Geechee cuisine, including delicacies such as smoked mullet, and experience performances that feature poetry and the soulful singing of African spirituals. By mid-afternoon, a significant number of festival-goers had gathered at the dock in anticipation of returning to the mainland, specifically near Meridian, Georgia.

Details of the Gangway Collapse

At approximately 4:30 p.m., as crowds prepared to board the ferry named the Annemarie, the gangway suddenly collapsed in its middle section, leading to chaos and panic. Reports indicate that around twenty individuals fell into the chilly, swiftly flowing waters of the Duplin River, prompting immediate rescue efforts.