NEW ORLEANS — On Friday, Nov. 13, 2026, a tanker struck a docked river cruise ship at the Port of New Orleans.
According to officials, the 520-foot tanker Atlantic Asphalt collided with the American Heritage paddlewheel riverboat on the Mississippi River. Authorities said the cause remains under investigation, with a preliminary review pointing to a steering malfunction.
Authorities said all 197 passengers and crew aboard the American Heritage survived. Thirty-two people, including two police officers who were thrown into the river, were taken to hospitals; none had critical injuries, and eight remained hospitalized as of Saturday, Nov. 14.
No injuries were reported aboard the tanker, officials said.
Emergency responders brought passengers to shore and escorted them to a nearby terminal for medical evaluations, according to authorities.
Video published by The National Desk shows passengers clinging to a railing and swimming to safety after the collision.
According to the Board of Commissioners of the Port of New Orleans, the port filed a lawsuit to take control of the tanker, alleging at least $1 million in terminal damage. A judge issued a warrant Friday placing the vessel under federal control pending proceedings.
Authorities said the investigation is ongoing.