SAPELO ISLAND, Ga. (WSAV) - As the investigation into the Sapelo gangway collapse continues, local and state leaders are trying to get support to the individuals in the community who were impacted by the collapse. News 3 also learned that the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is making their mental health professionals available. State Representative Al Williams says it's the state's responsibility to be there for those affected. "In a community as small as this, it’s certainly impacted us all," Williams said. Mcintosh Commissioner Roger Lotson shared the county’s support as well. He is the only commissioner to speak publicly about the tragedy so far. Lotson said the county will provide counseling services to the grieving as well as memorialize those lost. "We're reaching out, trying to do what we can to bring some solace, some comfort, some counseling, some spiritual guidance to those that have experienced this," Lotson said. "And we recognize that even those that had nothing to do with this event are also suffering." Williams said that he is also waiting for answers to several questions as the investigation continues. "I just want to know what happened," Williams said. "How did it happen? How did this walkway collapse? And based on the investigation, as we look further, what can we do to make sure that nothing like this ever happens again." Both leaders said they will remain diligent in the effort to get those answers. The dock and the pier are operated by Georgia DNR, but Lotson expects other agencies and individuals to do their own investigating as well. "Everyone should be able to withstand some level of scrutiny," Lotson said. "And it is my hope that all of that will happen going forward. Let's not tarnish the history of Sapelo island. When people think of Sapelo Island, we think about serenity, the peacefulness, the culture." WSAV did ask those officials how they feel about the investigation so far, and they both said they’re just waiting for the facts to come out after the investigation is completed before they comment on any speculation. The DNR Community Support Sessions are scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 26. A statement from DNR reads, "All affected by the tragedy are welcome to meet with mental health professionals. Costs associated with these sessions are being covered by DNR and the Georgia Natural Resources Foundation. Ongoing mental health resources will be made available to those in need... Our heartfelt condolences continue to go out to all involved in the Sapelo Island tragedy that occurred on Saturday, October 19." Community Support Sessions – Saturday, October 26, 2024 9 a.m.-noon - Sapelo Island - UGA Marine Institute 2 p.m.-5 p.m. - McIntosh County (Darien) - Oaks on the River Hotel