Search and rescue efforts are underway, according to Georgia’s Department of Natural Resources.
Authorities in the US state of Georgia have reported that while crowds gathered for a celebration on Sapelo Island, part of a ferry dock collapsed, resulting in at least seven fatalities and numerous injuries.
The dock’s operator, Georgia’s Department of Natural Resources (Georgia DNR), stated in a statement that about 20 people fell into the lake when the structure collapsed on Saturday.
Numerous local and state emergency agencies were forced to respond to this tragedy. Helicopters and boats were sent on search and rescue operations.
The event is being investigated, according to the authority, and the gangway has been guarded.
President Joe Biden released a statement saying, “We are heartbroken to learn about the ferry dock walkway collapse on Georgia’s Sapelo Island.”
“My team is in touch with state and local officials, and we stand ready to provide any and all assistance that would be helpful to the community,” he stated.
The administration is “in close contact with state and local officials, and we have offered any federal support the community might need,” according to Vice President Kamala Harris.
Governor Brian P. Kemp of Georgia expressed his and his family’s “heartbreak over today’s tragedy on Sapelo Island.”
He stated on X, “We ask that all Georgians join us in praying for those lost, for those still in harm’s way, and for their families as state and local first responders continue to work this active scene.”
