Tank Collision Sends Passengers into Mississippi River in New Orleans
NEW ORLEANS, LA — A collision between a 520-foot tanker and a docked river cruise ship occurred at the Port of New Orleans on Friday, resulting in multiple injuries.
According to the U.S. Coast Guard, the Atlantic Asphalt tanker crashed into the American Heritage river cruise ship around 2:41 p.m., causing the vessel to roll and ejecting passengers into the 66-degree waters of the Mississippi River. All 197 passengers and crew members aboard the American Heritage were rescued, with 32 people, including two police officers, transported to hospitals for evaluation. None sustained life-threatening injuries, but eight remained hospitalized as of Saturday.
Witnesses reported chaos as passengers scrambled to stay afloat, many wearing life jackets. “It's fine now, but it was a little scary there at the time,” said passenger Joe Knab.
Emergency responders, including local fire and rescue teams, assisted passengers back to shore and arranged medical checks at a nearby terminal. The cause of the crash is under investigation, with preliminary indications suggesting a steering malfunction.
Authorities reported no injuries on the tanker. The Port of New Orleans has filed a lawsuit seeking control of the Atlantic Asphalt, citing at least $1 million in damages to the terminal. A judge granted federal officials temporary authority over the tanker.
The investigation remains ongoing.