A tragic incident occurred on Georgia’s Sapelo Island, where the failure of an aluminum ferry gangway resulted in the deaths of seven individuals during an annual cultural event.
The gangway, which had been installed at the Marsh Landing Dock in November 2021, collapsed under the weight of attendees boarding the ferry Annemarie, leading to the fatalities.
Among those who lost their lives was 77-year-old Charles Houston, a respected chaplain for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Georgia State Patrol.
In addition to Houston, those who perished were identified Sunday by McIntosh County Coroner Melvin Amerson as Jacqueline Crews Carter, 75; Cynthia Gibbs, 74; Carlotta McIntosh, 93; and Isaiah Thomas, 79. They were all from Jacksonville, Georgia. Also killed, according to Amerson, were William Johnson, Jr., 73, and Queen Welch, 76, both of Atlanta.
According to officials, three others suffered critical injuries and were hospitalized following the collapse.
At the time of the incident, one end of the gangway was submerged in water, while the other remained attached to the landward side. The collapse led to a chaotic scene, with approximately 20 people falling into the water and fellow attendees, including DNR staff, rushing to assist those in distress.
Investigation into the incident is ongoing, with authorities examining the maintenance records of the gangway and determining the number of individuals present at the time of the collapse.
Legal Support and Seeking Justice for Victims
For those grappling with the devastating loss of a loved one due to a tragic accident, seeking legal recourse can provide a vital path to justice and compensation. Engaging a personal injury lawyer is crucial in securing the deserved compensation, helping to alleviate some of the financial pressures during such a tumultuous time.
As we extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the deceased, our commitment to seeking justice and accountability for all those impacted by this devastating event remains unwavering.
Tobin Injury Law: A Commitment to Justice and Support
Law firms specializing in personal injury, like Tobin Injury Law, are primed to support victims and their families in navigating the complexities of such cases.
At Tobin Injury Law, we stand committed to justice, offering empathetic support and dedicated representation to those affected by tragic accidents in Georgia. We understand the profound impact that such incidents have on families and are here to support you through your darkest hours. Our experienced Atlanta personal injury attorneys strive to achieve justice and equitable compensation for our clients, allowing them to focus on healing and recovery.
If you require legal assistance from a personal injury lawyer following a fatal accident caused by negligence, we encourage you to reach out to us for a complimentary case evaluation. By allowing us to handle the legal aspects of your case, you can focus on healing and recovery with your family.
In Conclusion
Accidents caused by negligence are a widespread tragedy affecting countless lives annually. By raising awareness, promoting education, and pursuing justice, we can work collaboratively to reduce such incidents.
We post these blog posts to remind everyone to be safe and aware of the dangers around you — safety is a responsibility we all share. Stay alert, stay smart, and Gd willing stay alive.