Tragedy Strikes During Sapelo Island's Cultural Day Celebration

At least seven people died after a dock collapse on Sapelo Island, Georgia, sending at least 20 into the Atlantic. The accident occurred during Cultural Day, celebrating the Gullah-Geechee community. Rescue operations involve the U.S. Coast Guard in search of missing individuals, with multiple injuries reported.

A tragic incident unfolded during Sapelo Island's Cultural Day as part of a boat dock collapsed, leading to the deaths of at least seven individuals and throwing at least 20 others into the Atlantic waters.

The U.S. Coast Guard launched a search and rescue operation Saturday night to locate those missing, after the disaster which left multiple attendees injured. The collapse occurred on the Georgia barrier island, around 60 miles south of Savannah, during a celebration of the island's Gullah-Geechee community of Black slave descendants.

Efforts are ongoing to find survivors, utilizing Coast Guard helicopters and boats equipped with sonar. The cause of the collapse remains unclear. The Gullah-Geechee are known for preserving their African heritage due to geographical isolation. Officials extend their condolences to all affected by the disaster.

(With inputs from agencies.)