ATLANTA – State Representatives Viola Davis (D-Stone Mountain), Kim Schofield (D-Atlanta) and Sandra Scott (D-Rex), members of the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus (GLBC), visited Sapelo Island on Monday, October 21, 2024, in response to the ferry dock gangway collapse that resulted in the deaths of seven individuals and occurred during a celebration of the Gullah-Geechee community. The members met with GLBC Chairman State Representative Carl Gilliard (D-Savannah) to engage with residents, call for an investigation and advocate for enhanced safety measures to prevent future incidents.
McIntosh County Coroner Melvin Amerson has confirmed the identities of the individuals who lost their lives in the ferry dock gangway collapse. The deceased are: Jacqueline Crews Carter, 75, from Jacksonville, FL; Cynthia Gibbs, 74, also from Jacksonville, FL; Charles L. Houston, 77, from Darien; William Johnson, Jr., 73, from Atlanta; Carlotta McIntosh, 93, from Jacksonville, FL; Isaiah Thomas, 79, from Jacksonville, FL; and Queen Welch, 76, from Atlanta.
“My deepest condolences and heartfelt concern go out to the families and friends who lost their lives in this tragic event,” said Rep. Davis. “I was moved by Sapelo resident J.R. Grovnar, who made headlines for rescuing a baby during the collapse. Grovnar had reported a flaw in the gangway ‘three to four months ago,’ and his family raised concerns as well. We must push for a federal investigation to uncover the cause of these deaths. Additionally, we need to ensure that survivors receive the necessary resources and support to recover from this trauma. It is essential that we prioritize the well-being of the community, and we must make sure proper safety measures are in place to prevent future tragedies like this.”
“I toured the site where seven lives were lost due to a faulty gangway on Sapelo Island,” said Rep. Schofield. “The lasting grief and trauma that the Gullah Geechee community is now experiencing is beyond words. This community awaits the same level of resources offered to victims of Hurricane Helene, yet there is silence from state leaders. What is most alarming is the question of what could have been done to prevent this? How accessible was the proper rescue equipment on Sapelo Island? The Gullah Geechee community banded together to retrieve bodies from the water and triage injured people with inadequate resources. The length of time it took for help was unacceptable. The price of these deaths falls on the state of Georgia. I want an immediate federal investigation, as we all demand answers. These lives will forever be mourned and missed. It was a heartbreaking day.”
“I extend my deepest condolences to the families and friends who lost loved ones in this tragic incident,” said Rep. Scott. “My heart aches for the community forever changed by this devastating event. I also commend the brave individuals who risked their safety to save others. This tragedy should have never happened. Just three months ago, a report was filed regarding a crack in the ramp, yet no action was taken, even after two hurricanes. This oversight raises serious concerns about accountability. As we mourn, we must seek answers. The dignity of the deceased and injured must always come first, and I am committed to pursuing justice and safety for all.”
During their visit, Reps. Davis, Schofield and Scott attended a press conference where speakers, including attorney Mawuli Mel Dagis, attorney Francys Johnson and Chadrick Mance, President of the NAACP Savannah Chapter, addressed the need for accountability and safety improvements in the Gullah Geechee community. The members intend to work with GLBC to seek justice for the affected families and urge state and federal authorities to ensure the safety of Sapelo Island’s residents and visitors.
*Editor’s note: photos from the visit to Sapelo Island are attached.
Representative Viola Davis represents the citizens of District 87, which includes portions of DeKalb County. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2018 and currently serves on the Defense & Veterans Affairs, Insurance, Interstate Cooperation, Natural Resources & Environment and Urban Affairs committees.
Representative Kim Schofield represents the citizens of District 63, which includes portions of Fulton County. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2017 and currently serves as the Secretary of the Urban Affairs Committee. She also serves on the Creative Arts & Entertainment, Health, Interstate Cooperation and Small Business Development committees.
Representative Sandra Scott represents the citizens of District 76, which includes portions of Clayton County. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2010 and currently serves as the Minority Caucus Chief Deputy Whip. She also serves on the Banks & Banking, Defense & Veterans Affairs, Human Relations & Aging, Insurance and Reapportionment and Redistricting committees.
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