Tanker hits cruise ship on Mississippi River near New Orleans port
A rescue operation is underway after the Atlantic Asphalt collided with a docked vessel carrying approximately 130 people.
A tanker collided with a river cruise ship near the Port of New Orleans on Friday, causing the vessel to partially sink in the Mississippi River. According to reports from the Times of India, the tanker Atlantic Asphalt struck the American Heritage, a paddlewheel boat operated by American Cruise Lines, while it was docked.
The collision occurred at approximately 12:30 local time. The American Heritage was reportedly preparing to disembark passengers when the impact caused the ship to list and submerge into the water. Local broadcaster WVUE, cited by Times Now, stated there were 129 passengers and crew members on board.
Emergency responders, including the US Coast Guard, New Orleans firefighters, and city police, launched a rescue operation. Video footage showed individuals in life jackets in the river and others gathered on the ship's railings. Some passengers were moved to the Port of New Orleans Administration Building for assistance.
The US Coast Guard closed the Mississippi River to all vessel traffic between mile markers 93 and 96 to facilitate response efforts. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry was travelling to New Orleans following the incident.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the total number of injuries or fatalities, nor the cause of the collision. The Port of New Orleans stated that its priority is the safety of all passengers, crew, and first responders.