Seven elderly people lost their lives, and others were left traumatized after a tragic gangway collapse at a ferry dock on Sapelo Island over the weekend. The accident occurred as visitors were departing from the island’s annual Cultural Day event, a celebration of Gullah Geechee’s heritage.
Authorities and engineers are now investigating what led to the “catastrophic failure” of the gangway, which plunged around 20 people into the water. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which operates the ferries, is working closely with experts to determine whether structural issues, overcrowding, or other factors played a role in the collapse. DNR Commissioner Walter Rabon confirmed the investigation is ongoing.
The incident happened late Saturday afternoon as guests were preparing to leave the event. Normally, around 100 people travel to and from Sapelo Island daily, but over 700 visitors attended the event on Saturday, leading to increased ferry trips. Rabon acknowledged the possibility that the extra usage could have stressed the gangway.
Witnesses reported chaotic scenes as people fell into the water while others, including bystanders and state employees, leaped in to assist with rescue efforts. Coast Guard helicopters and boats were quickly deployed to conduct search and rescue missions, using sonar equipment to locate survivors.
“We saw quick action from bystanders and officials, which saved additional lives that day,” Rabon said.
The victims, ranging in age from 73 to 93, were identified Monday. Four hailed from Jacksonville, Florida: Isaiah Thomas, 79; Carlotta Mcintosh, 93; Jacqueline Crews Carter, 75; and Cynthia Alynn Gibbs, 74. From the Atlanta area, victims included William Lee Johnson Jr., 73, and Queen Welch, 76. Also killed was Charles League Houston, 77, of Darien, Georgia, a chaplain with the Department of Natural Resources. None of the victims were residents of the island.
Houston, a chaplain for the DNR, had been attending the event because of his dedication to preserving Gullah Geechee culture. According to his daughter, Heather Houston-Meeks, he sprang into action when the gangway collapsed, trying to help others in the water. “He was, until the last second, serving others and looking out for others,” she said.
Houston-Meeks herself was also on the gangway and found herself in the water during the collapse but managed to swim to safety. She spoke of the chaos and confusion but credited the quick response of those nearby for saving many lives.
