Tanker collides with American Heritage cruise ship near New Orleans port
A tanker struck the American Heritage cruise vessel on the Mississippi River near the Port of New Orleans, prompting rescue efforts for passengers and crew.
Emergency responders are handling a collision on the Mississippi River outside the Port of New Orleans. At about 12:30 p.m., the Atlantic Asphalt tanker struck the American Cruise Lines vessel American Heritage while the ship was docked to begin passenger disembarkation.
Port officials said roughly 129 passengers and crew were aboard the American Heritage at the time. Twelve people were reported in the water and are being rescued.
The Port of New Orleans, Harbor Police, New Orleans Fire Department, New Orleans Police Department, U.S. Coast Guard and medical personnel are on scene, moving passengers to the Port Administration Building for triage and assistance.
"Our immediate priority is the safety of all passengers, crew members and first responders. This remains an active and evolving incident. The number of injuries and the cause of the allision have not yet been confirmed. Additional updates will be provided as information is confirmed," the Port said in a news release.