Tanker collision with cruise ship on Mississippi River prompts rescue operation in New Orleans
A tanker struck the American Heritage river cruise vessel on the Mississippi River near New Orleans, leading to the evacuation of passengers and crew and a multi-agency rescue effort.
A tanker collided with the American Heritage, a river cruise ship operated by American Cruise Lines, on the Mississippi River near New Orleans at about 12:30 p.m. on Friday, officials said. The Atlantic Asphalt, a 160-metre oil tanker, struck the side of the vessel as it was beginning to disembark roughly 129 passengers and crew.
Port of New Orleans press secretary Kimberly Curth said multiple individuals have been rescued and that public safety agencies, including firefighters, police, the U.S. Coast Guard and local emergency medical services, are coordinating response efforts. The Coast Guard closed river traffic between mile markers 93 and 96 to allow responders to assess the situation.
The American Heritage rolled onto its side after the impact; crew members of a tugboat helped pull people wearing lifejackets or holding flotation rings from the water. Hospital officials reported 24 patients were admitted, with eight transported by Acadian Ambulance for treatment.
Maritime law expert Martin J. Davies noted that the tanker avoided striking the nearby Crescent City Connection bridge, which carries about 160,000 vehicles daily.
American Cruise Lines confirmed that guests and crew were evacuated but did not disclose numbers. The Atlantic Asphalt, flagged to the Marshall Islands and owned by Nave Shipping SA, had previously been fined by Canadian authorities for a pollution-related violation. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry said he was traveling to New Orleans in response to the incident.