Seven people were killed when a ferry pier collapsed on Sapelo Island, Georgia, on Saturday.
Reports said there were at least 20 people on the dock when a crowd celebrating the Gullah-Geechee community, made up of descendants of black slaves, broke up.
Multiple people were rushed to nearby hospitals. Their condition is unknown.
Sapelo Island is about 90 miles south of Savannah.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp offered prayers for the victims.
Marty, the girls, and I are saddened by today’s tragedy on Sapelo Island. As state and local first responders continue to work on this active scene, we ask all Georgians to pray for those lost, those still at risk, and their families. Please give it to me.
— Governor Brian P. Kemp (@GovKemp) October 19, 2024
Fox5 Atlanta reported:
At least seven people were killed when part of a ferry pier collapsed on Sapelo Island, Georgia, on Saturday, authorities said.
Several people were taken to the hospital, and members of the U.S. Coast Guard, McIntosh County Fire Department, Georgia Department of Natural Resources and other agencies were searching the water, Georgia Department of Natural Resources spokesman Tyler Jones said. . dock.
Mr Jones said the gangway on the pier collapsed, sending people into the water. It happened as crowds gathered on the island to celebrate the small community of the Gullah-Geechee people, descendants of black slaves.
“Seven people have been confirmed dead,” Jones said. “Multiple people were transported to area hospitals and we continue to search the water.”
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