A chaotic scene unfolded at the Port of New Orleans Friday afternoon when a massive tanker collided with a docked cruise ship carrying more than 100 passengers, triggering immediate water rescue operations.
The Atlantic Asphalt tanker struck the American Heritage riverboat operated by American Cruise Lines around 12:30 p.m. local time while the vessel was moored at the port. Dramatic footage captured by local media showed emergency responders scrambling to evacuate passengers from the impacted ship.
Mass Emergency Response
According to port officials, 129 guests were aboard the 150-capacity American Heritage at the time of impact along with crew members. A multi-agency response team including harbor police, fire department crews, and U.S. Coast Guard personnel descended on the scene to coordinate rescue efforts.
“Guests and crew were evacuated, and we are deeply concerned for everyone involved,” a cruise line spokesperson told reporters. The company confirmed it was working closely with Coast Guard investigators as the situation developed.
Officials Rush to Scene
The collision prompted Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry to announce he was en route to assess the damage firsthand. The American Heritage, which features onboard dining and recreational facilities, remained docked as authorities investigated the cause of the accident.
No immediate reports of serious injuries had been confirmed as emergency teams continued operations. The Port of New Orleans emphasized all appropriate safety protocols were being followed during the ongoing response.
Source: www.dailywire.com — https://www.dailywire.com/news/water-rescues-underway-after-tanker-slams-into-docked-cruise-ship