The gangway crash of a ferry dock in Sapelo Island led to the deaths of seven on Oct. 19 during a Gullah-Geechee event. 

Investigators are in the process of determining the root cause of the aluminum gangway collapse, which is said to be a “structural failure” at this time, according to Walter Rabon, Georgia Department of Natural Resources Commissioner. The current gangway was installed in 2021 after a lawsuit was resolved stating that the dock failed to meet standards for disabled individuals. 

Sapelo Island workers who consistently stood upon the gangway reported visitors’ complaints stating it “wasn’t sturdy enough.” The Dec. 2023 inspection conducted by the McIntosh County Crescent Equipment company found no issues to address during an influx of visitors.  

Sapelo Island visitor James Adams, who went to the island in the summer of 2022 with his family, stated his reaction to the revelation after he saw the dock firsthand. 

“It’s the responsibility of the island to ensure their visitors that these docks are safe to walk along, I am always wary that aluminum beams are susceptible to issues if they aren’t properly assessed regularly.” – James Adams, Sapelo Island visitor

Safety officials have been involved with the ongoing investigation into the catastrophic debacle as they seek to conclude what could have been done differently in the lead-up to the incident to provide visitors with a safe environment. 

Retired incident investigator Gerald Daley, who has been involved with similar investigations, weighed in on what may come to light during this probe. 

“They’re going to analyze every aspect of the incident. From the amount of people who were standing on the gangway to the point of collapse. The ease with which the gangway collapsed could end up reflecting laxity on their part.” – Gerald Daley, former Incident Investigator 

In the aftermath of this tragedy, authorities are working closely with the dock’s operators and Sapelo Island officials to implement stricter safety measures and oversight. The ferry itself has been taken to a “secure location” to be evaluated further.  

Renowned civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump is representing the families of three victims who are seeking transparency over the course of the proceedings. “This should never have happened, and it is crucial that we prevent future tragedies by addressing the negligence that led to this horrific event,” he said in a statement.