Additional Coverage:
- At least 7 dead, multiple injured after gangway collapses on Georgia’s Sapelo Island (newsbreak.com)
Tragedy struck Georgia’s Sapelo Island when a gangway collapsed, claiming the lives of seven individuals.
The accident occurred on Saturday afternoon, with at least 20 people falling into the water. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, deploying boats and helicopters to search for survivors. Six victims were critically injured, while two others were airlifted to hospitals.
The cause of the collapse remains unknown, with an investigation underway. Authorities are examining the site with an engineering and construction team.
President Biden and Vice President Harris expressed their condolences and offered support to the community.
Sapelo Island is home to the Gullah-Geechee people, descendants of enslaved Africans who preserved their African traditions. The tragedy occurred during a cultural celebration honoring their heritage.