A tanker struck a docked river cruise ship carrying about 129 passengers in New Orleans on Friday, prompting a rescue response. Emergency crews brought passengers ashore for triage and assistance.
The Atlantic Asphalt tanker hit American Cruise Lines’ American Heritage at about 12:30 p.m. on the Mississippi River, the Port of New Orleans said. Crew members were also aboard the cruise ship.
Officials have not confirmed how many people were injured or what caused the collision.
“Our immediate priority is the safety of all passengers, crew members and first responders,” the port said, adding that the incident was still unfolding.
Port NOLA Harbor Police, the New Orleans Fire Department and Police Department, the U.S. Coast Guard, and emergency medical personnel responded. Passengers were taken to the Port of New Orleans Administration Building for triage and assistance.
The American Heritage had docked about two hours before the collision to begin disembarking passengers.
Weather conditions were clear, with no precipitation reported. Temperatures were in the upper 60s, and north winds were blowing at 8 to 12 mph, with gusts reaching 15 to 17 mph. The water temperature was about 66 degrees.
Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry said he was heading to New Orleans and was in contact with local officials and law enforcement.
Rep. Troy Carter, D-La., said he was monitoring the response and expressed hope for the swift rescue of survivors and the safety of emergency crews.
The city’s emergency preparedness agency urged people to stay away from the area so responders could continue their work.
