Tanker Hits River Cruise Boat Carrying 129 Passengers in New Orleans
A tanker struck the riverboat American Heritage in New Orleans, US, on Friday, partially submerging it. Several people have been rescued and search-and-rescue operations continue.
A tanker collided with the river cruise boat American Heritage in New Orleans, in the US state of Louisiana, on Friday, leaving the vessel partially submerged. The office of New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno said several people had been rescued, while search-and-rescue efforts were still under way. The incident is significant because a large number of passengers were on board, and no information on casualties has yet been released.
What is known about the collision
According to the Port of New Orleans, roughly 129 passengers were aboard the riverboat when it was hit. The American Heritage is a paddlewheel boat operated by American Cruise Lines.
Video from the scene shows a much larger vessel crashing into the cruise boat, which appeared to be docked. People can be seen in the river wearing life jackets or standing by the railing, while the far side of the boat tilts further into the water.
Passenger disembarkation
It was reported that the vessel had docked two hours early in order to start letting passengers off. Port NOLA said passengers were being taken into the Port of New Orleans Administration Building.
Authorities have not immediately said whether there were any injuries or deaths. The situation is still developing, and further details may follow.
