Seven people, mostly in their 70s, were killed in a gangway collapse on Sapelo Island in Georgia during a celebration of Gullah Geechee history. The victims included individuals from Jacksonville, Atlanta, and Darien. The collapse occurred as a ferry docked on the island, causing approximately 20 people to fall into the water. Multiple rescue attempts were made by bystanders, resulting in several survivors needing medical attention. Authorities attributed the incident to a “catastrophic failure” of the gangway and are conducting further investigations.
The island, known for its unique culture, has been the subject of a fight regarding its future development. A Black enclave on the island, Hog Hammock, home to the Gullah Geechee community, has been facing challenges from the local government over taxes and regulations that threaten their existence. Residents have been vocal about the neglect and upending of their community by recent regulations and development proposals.
The tragic incident on Saturday has further united the Gullah Geechee community in their fight to preserve their culture and way of life. Survivors of the victims are now considered part of their extended family. The collapse of the gangway has raised concerns about the safety of new structures on the island, prompting calls for a federal investigation. Despite the tragedy, the Gullah Geechee people remain resilient in their struggle to protect their historic community and maintain their cultural traditions.
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