Tanker collides with cruise ship on Mississippi in New Orleans
More than 30 people were hospitalized after a freighter collided with a cruise ship on the Mississippi River in New Orleans on Friday.
The collision occurred near the port of New Orleans when the freighter Atlantic Asphalt hit the cruise ship while it was docked. Footage showed the paddlewheel cruise boat capsizing following the impact with the much larger cargo vessel, with rescue teams rushing to get people in life jackets out of the water.
Rescue efforts
Authorities confirmed that at least 180 passengers and crew were rescued following the incident. New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno described it as "a miracle on the Mississippi," noting that none of those hospitalized had critical injuries.
Investigation begins
The cruise ship, built in 2015 and five stories tall, was finishing an eight-day cruise to several Mississippi River destinations in Louisiana and Mississippi when the collision occurred. American Cruise Lines, which operates the passenger ship, stated that "guests and crew were evacuated, and we are deeply concerned for everyone involved."
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry confirmed he was traveling to New Orleans, while US Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin announced his department was "throwing every asset we have to helping rescue missing passengers" and coordinating closely with state officials.
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