During a cultural celebration on Sapelo Island, disaster quickly occurred when the dock that the celebration was taking place on collapsed. 40 people were present to celebrate one of the island’s “fifteen African American Saltwater Geechee settlements,” according to TCLF.

When the ferry dock collapsed, 20 of the 40 people fell into the water, putting them in grave risk due to the water’s depth. First responders were quick to the scene, with the U.S. Coast Guard, fire departments, and sheriffs bolting quickly to Sapelo Island using helicopters and boats. More than just first responders helped; many bystanders made a human chain to pass survivors from the water to the shore. Reginald Hall, a resident of Sapelo Island, jumped into the cold waters to save a little boy who fell. Others performed CPR to try to resurrect the victims.

Eight people were hospitalized, six of which had critical injuries, and seven were found dead. According to Daily Mail, Charles Houston Jr. (77), Carlotta McIntosh (93), Isaiah Tomas (79), Jacqueline Crews Carter (75), Cynthia Gibbs (74), William Johnson (73), and Queen Welch (76) were dead from the incident, none of whom where island residents.

BBC states that Tyler Jones, a spokesman for Georgia’s National Resources Department (GNRD), stated that there was “no collision. The thing just collapsed. We don’t know why.” On the other hand, GDNR Commissioner Walter Rabon said, “It was a structural failure. There is very little maintenance to those ferry docks. We’ll see how the investigation unfolds.” 

President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris sent their condolences to everyone affected by the accident. Biden said, “What should have been a joyous celebration turned into tragedy and devastation. We are also very grateful for the first responders that helped everyone.” Everyone is hoping and thinking of the victims and their families alongside the President, wishing those hospitalized a quick recovery.