A large gangway collapsed during Fourth of July fireworks at the Fernandina Beach Harbor Marina causing injuries to some of the celebrators.
The Fernandina Beach Police Department and city posted alerts on their Facebooks shortly before 10 p.m. stating the injuries were minor and that more information will be provided as it becomes available.
“While a few individuals sustained minor injuries, all were treated at the scene and none required transport for further medical care,” the posts said.
However, It brings to mind the Sapelo Island gangway collapse last year in Georgia that killed seven people, including four from Jacksonville, and resulted in lawsuits.
Police Chief Jeff Tambasco told Times-Union news partner First Coast News the scene was under control and the crowd had dispersed. He said there were more people on the structure than it could support to watch the fireworks.
News4Jax heard from a man who fell into the water. Michael Belfort said it was about waist-deep. Moments before the collapse happened, he said he heard creaking sounds coming from the bridge.
(This story has been updated with new information).
This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Another Sapelo Island? Fernandina gangway collapses during 4th of July fireworks
Reporting by Scott Butler, Jacksonville Florida Times-Union / Florida Times-Union
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