A tragic incident occurred on Sapelo Island in Georgia when part of a ferry dock collapsed, resulting in at least seven deaths and multiple critical injuries. Authorities from various agencies were involved in search and rescue efforts, with helicopters and boats deployed to the scene.
The collapse occurred during a fall celebration organized by the island’s small Gullah-Geechee community, descendants of Black slaves. A team of engineers and construction specialists was set to investigate the cause of the collapse.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp expressed sadness over the tragedy, while President Joe Biden offered assistance and condolences to the victims and their families. The incident occurred during the annual Cultural Day event on the island, where residents, family members, and tourists gather to celebrate the community’s heritage.
The Hogg Hummock community on Sapelo Island was founded by former slaves after the Civil War and remains closely knit. However, the population has been shrinking, and residents have been fighting against zoning changes that could impact their way of life.
The Gullah-Geechee communities along the coast retain much of their African heritage, with unique dialects and traditional skills passed down through generations. Hogg Hummock, also known as Hog Hammock, was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1996.
The tragic incident has brought attention to the struggles faced by these historic communities and highlights the need for support and preservation efforts. The investigation into the dock collapse is ongoing, and authorities are working to determine the cause of the tragedy.
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