At least 7 dead after ferry dock gangway collapses on Georgia's Sapelo Island

Authorities said at least seven people were killed Saturday when part of a ferry dock collapsed on Georgia's Sapelo Island, where crowds had gathered for a fall celebration by the island's tiny Gullah-Geechee community of Black slave descendants.

[@aliC9309]

I don't understand the layout of the dock. Is it that it fell on top of people leaving no escape or underneath? If it collapsed under their feet what prevented them from swimming to safety?

[@joWorld664]

I used to work on this island and am trying to understand what happened as well. It would be difficult for people to get trapped underneath. According to witness reports, the current was very strong that day. Some of the people who fell in were elderly and using walkers. The water is so brackish there's almost no visibility. Also, with 20+ people falling in at once, many people were clawing and accidently dragging others under while trying to surface. I think that those that fell in and weren't able to surface were virtually impossible to find in a timely manner.

[@SelenaThompson-rt5fs]

​@joWorld664 I live in the area and I'm sure this is how it happened. Its a tragic situation all around. That day, Cultural Day was underway upon Sapelo. I hope the people of the island and surrounding communities can recover.
My heart goes out to each and every one of my neighbors, during this time. Thank you for your input on what may have caused the casualties. Many of us are wondering and of course its speculation, but I assume the same as you.
I hope you didn't have anyone affected by this❤