Sapelo Island, Georgia, October 20, 2025
One year after the tragic gangway collapse on Sapelo Island, communities across coastal Georgia come together to honor the lives lost. Memorial events have been organized to reflect on the incident and to advocate for improved safety measures in island infrastructure. The events serve as a reminder of the importance of community safety in construction and infrastructure developments.
Sapelo Island, Georgia, Commemorates One Year Since Fatal Gangway Collapse
On October 19, 2025, Sapelo Island, Georgia, marked the one-year anniversary of the tragic gangway collapse that resulted in seven fatalities. The community gathered to honor the victims and reflect on the incident that occurred during the annual Gullah-Geechee Cultural Day celebration.
Memorial Ceremony and Community Gathering
Community members, victims’ families, and survivors convened for a memorial ceremony organized by the Sapelo Island Cultural and Revitalization Society (SICARS). The event aimed to honor those who lost their lives, those who were injured, and all who were impacted by the tragedy. Attendees participated in lighting candles and placing flowers and wreaths in memory of the victims. Plans for a permanent memorial on Sapelo Island are underway, with discussions about creating a statue and labeling at the dock where the incident occurred.
Details of the 2024 Gangway Collapse
The incident took place on October 19, 2024, when an 80-foot aluminum gangway at the Marsh Landing Dock collapsed, sending approximately 20 people into the water. Seven individuals lost their lives, and three others were critically injured. The victims ranged in age from 73 to 93 and were from Jacksonville, Florida; Atlanta, Georgia; and Darien, Georgia. The collapse occurred as visitors were boarding a ferry back to the mainland after attending the annual Gullah-Geechee Cultural Day celebration, which honors the island’s Gullah-Geechee heritage.
Investigation and Legal Actions
Following the collapse, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation initiated an investigation into the cause of the structural failure. The gangway had been installed in November 2021 and was inspected in December 2023, with no safety issues reported. In June 2025, civil rights attorneys filed a lawsuit on behalf of the victims’ families and survivors, alleging negligence by the engineering and construction companies involved in the gangway’s design and construction. The lawsuit highlights serious injuries and lasting trauma resulting from the incident.
Infrastructure Improvements and Safety Measures
In response to the tragedy, the DNR replaced the collapsed gangway and its counterpart on the mainland as a precautionary measure. The new gangways, installed in December 2024, are 91 feet long, 8 feet wide, and designed to support up to 260 people. Additionally, new safety signs were erected at the ferry point, limiting the number of individuals on the gangway to eight at a time, to prevent overcrowding and ensure safety.
Background on Sapelo Island and the Gullah-Geechee Community
Sapelo Island is home to a small community of Gullah-Geechee descendants, who are the descendants of enslaved Africans brought to the United States. The Gullah-Geechee people have maintained a distinct culture and language, with deep roots in the coastal regions of Georgia and South Carolina. The annual Cultural Day celebration is a significant event for the community, showcasing their rich heritage and traditions.
Ongoing Community Support and Healing
The community continues to support the victims’ families and survivors through various memorials and gatherings. The SICARS remains committed to honoring the memories of those lost and ensuring the safety and well-being of the island’s residents and visitors. The tragic incident has brought the community closer together, emphasizing the importance of unity and resilience in the face of adversity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened on October 19, 2024, on Sapelo Island?
On October 19, 2024, an 80-foot aluminum gangway at the Marsh Landing Dock on Sapelo Island collapsed, sending approximately 20 people into the water. Seven individuals lost their lives, and three others were critically injured. The incident occurred during the annual Gullah-Geechee Cultural Day celebration.
Who were the victims of the gangway collapse?
The victims ranged in age from 73 to 93 and were from Jacksonville, Florida; Atlanta, Georgia; and Darien, Georgia. The victims were identified as Jacqueline Crews Carter (75), Cynthia Gibbs (74), Charles Houston (77), William Johnson Jr. (73), Carlotta McIntosh (93), Isaiah Thomas (79), and Queen Welch (76).
What actions have been taken following the tragedy?
Following the collapse, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation initiated an investigation into the cause of the structural failure. In June 2025, civil rights attorneys filed a lawsuit on behalf of the victims’ families and survivors, alleging negligence by the engineering and construction companies involved. Additionally, the DNR replaced the collapsed gangway and its counterpart on the mainland as a precautionary measure, installing new gangways designed to support up to 260 people. New safety signs were also erected at the ferry point to limit the number of individuals on the gangway to eight at a time, ensuring safety and preventing overcrowding.
What is the Gullah-Geechee community?
The Gullah-Geechee community consists of descendants of enslaved Africans brought to the United States, primarily residing in the coastal regions of Georgia and South Carolina. They have maintained a distinct culture and language, with deep roots in these areas. The annual Gullah-Geechee Cultural Day celebration on Sapelo Island honors this rich heritage and tradition.
Key Features of the Sapelo Island Gangway Collapse Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | October 19, 2024 |
| Location | Sapelo Island, Georgia |
| Cause of Collapse | Structural failure of the gangway |
| Number of Fatalities | Seven |
| Number of Injuries | Three critically injured |
| Victim Age Range | 73 to 93 years old |
| Victim Locations | Jacksonville, Florida; Atlanta, Georgia; Darien, Georgia |
| Event During Collapse | Annual Gullah-Geechee Cultural Day celebration |
| Investigation Initiated By | Georgia Department of Natural Resources and Georgia Bureau of Investigation |
| Lawsuit Filed By | Civil rights attorneys on behalf of victims’ families and survivors |
| New Gangway Specifications | 91 feet long, 8 feet wide, supporting up to 260 people |
| New Safety Measures | Signs limiting gangway use to eight individuals at a time |
| Community Response | Memorial ceremonies and plans for permanent memorials |
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Author: Construction FL News
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