Georgia Mountain News

Rep. Earl L. "Buddy" Carter has introduced a House Resolution to honor the seven individuals who lost their lives in a gangway collapse on Sapelo Island during the Gullah Geechee Culture Day celebration on October 19, 2024. The resolution is supported by members of the Georgia delegation.

"The tragic events of October 19, 2024, will be felt forever. It is heartbreaking that a day of celebration turned into a day of mourning and sorrow. We can never bring our loved ones back, but we can ensure they are never forgotten. I am proud that my friends in the Georgia delegation have joined me in memorializing Isaiah Thomas, Carlotta McIntosh, Jacqueline Crews Carter, Cynthia Alynn Gibbs, Queen Welch, William Lee Johnson, Jr., and Charles League Houston. I will continue to stand beside and pray for the Gullah-Geechee Community as we get to the bottom of how this tragedy was able to occur," said Rep. Carter (GA-01).

Congressman Hank Johnson expressed his sentiments by stating: "With a heavy heart and great sadness, we honor the victims of the terrible Sapelo Island tragedy, who were helping celebrate and preserve the most famous Gullah Geechee community on the Southeastern coast. I hope we use this tragedy to understand that Sapelo is sacred ground, and the history, culture and traditions of its people must be preserved for generations to come."

Congressman Rich McCormick also shared his condolences: “My heart goes out to the families and the entire Gullah Geechee community affected by the devastating collapse of the gangway on Sapelo Island. I pray for the survivors as they heal and for those as they mourn the loss of their loved ones. Together we honor the spirit of resilience that defines this vibrant community.”

The resolution not only honors those who perished but also commends first responders for their quick actions which prevented further casualties.

The original co-sponsors of this resolution include Reps. Rich McCormick (R-GA), Nikema Williams (D-GA), Drew Ferguson (R-GA), Hank Johnson (D-GA), Austin Scott (R-GA), Sanford Bishop (D-GA), and Lucy McBath (D-GA).