On Saturday, a tragic incident occurred on Sapelo Island, Georgia, where a gangway collapse during a celebration of Gullah Geechee history resulted in seven fatalities. The victims, mostly in their 70s and one in her 90s, were attending an event that highlighted the cultural heritage of the Gullah Geechee community, a unique blend of African and American traditions.
According to the McIntosh County coroner, the deceased were identified as Jacqueline Crews Carter, 75; Cynthia Gibbs, 74; Charles L. Houston, 77; William Johnson Jr., 73; Carlotta McIntosh, 93; Isaiah Thomas, 79; and Queen Welch, 76. At the time of the collapse, approximately 700 people were present on the island, celebrating their rich cultural history.
The gangway leading to the island’s Marsh Ferry Dock collapsed just before 4 p.m. while a ferry was docked, causing around 20 people to fall into the water. Georgia Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Walter Rabon reported that many bystanders, including state employees present to manage the event’s crowds, jumped into the water to assist those in distress.
Houston, one of the deceased, served as a Department of Natural Resources chaplain and was actively involved in the celebration because of his commitment to preserving Gullah Geechee heritage. His daughter, Heather Houston-Meeks, shared that he rushed to help others during the chaos, showcasing his dedication to serving the community.
Authorities described the incident as a “catastrophic failure” of the gangway, prompting an investigation to determine the cause. Rabon indicated that while overcrowding might have contributed to the collapse, nothing could be ruled out at this stage. The gangway had been rebuilt in 2021 and was inspected regularly, yet its sudden failure raised concerns.
Eyewitness accounts painted a picture of chaos, with videos showing civilians wading through the water to rescue those affected. Among the survivors, six required medical attention, with three reported to be in critical condition. The U.S. Coast Guard dispatched air crews to aid in the search for survivors, and local authorities conducted thorough searches in the area.
As the recovery efforts continued, the ferry service to Sapelo Island was set to resume using an auxiliary dock. The island, separated from mainland Georgia by the Duplin River and coastal sounds, has been the center of cultural preservation for the Gullah Geechee community. This community, which maintains a rich heritage rooted in African traditions, has faced challenges related to land use and local government regulations that threaten its existence.
The island’s history includes a Black enclave known as Hog Hammock, created to consolidate Gullah Geechee residents, which has been embroiled in a struggle against the McIntosh County government over development regulations that many feel threaten their way of life. Local residents have alleged that new regulations serve to displace the Gullah Geechee people and make room for luxury accommodations.
In light of the recent tragedy, concerns have been raised about the gangway’s structural integrity. A resident, J.R. Grovner, claimed to have voiced concerns about the gangway’s bouncing under load just months prior to the collapse. Calls for federal investigation into the incident have been made to ensure accountability and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The community remains united in mourning the loss of the victims while facing ongoing challenges regarding their cultural heritage and land rights. Grovner emphasized the importance of supporting families who have lost loved ones, stating that they are now part of the broader Gullah Geechee family.
The gangway collapse on Sapelo Island serves as a tragic reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring strength of community. As investigations proceed, the Gullah Geechee people continue to fight for their rights and the preservation of their rich cultural heritage, standing together in solidarity during these challenging times.
