A tanker collided with an American Cruise Lines vessel, the American Heritage, on the Mississippi River near the Port of New Orleans around 12:30 p.m. Friday, according to the Port of New Orleans. The river cruiser was docked outside 1350 Port of New Orleans Place and had been there for about two hours to begin passenger disembarkation when the Atlantic Asphalt tanker struck it.
Port officials said there were about 129 passengers aboard, in addition to crew members. The vessel began taking on water after the impact, prompting emergency response teams to launch rescue operations.
Multiple individuals have been rescued and were being brought inside the Port of New Orleans Administration Building, according to Mayor Helena Moreno's communication team. Governor Jeff Landry confirmed he was aware of the situation and was heading to New Orleans.
The incident remains under investigation as a breaking news story with continued updates expected.
Sources: FOX5 Vegas
Original reporting: Las Vegas Review-Journal →
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