A tanker ship collided with a docked river cruise boat in New Orleans on Friday, causing the vessel to partially capsize and sending dozens to the hospital, though officials described the lack of fatalities as a "miracle."
The American Heritage, a riverboat operated by American Cruise Lines carrying roughly 180 to 190 passengers and crew, was struck by the Atlantic Asphalt tanker at approximately 12:30 p.m. local time.
The cruise ship had been docked on the Mississippi River for about two hours, and passengers were in the process of disembarking when the collision occurred.
Dramatic footage of the incident showed the riverboat tilting heavily before coming to rest on its side in shallow water.
First responders managed to evacuate approximately 87 people from the vessel before it fully tipped over, while at least 12 people were pulled directly from the water.
New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno confirmed that 32 people were transported to local hospitals for treatment, including two police officers who were assisting with the evacuation.
None of the injuries were considered critical, and officials confirmed that every single person aboard the ship was successfully accounted for.
A 'literal miracle' on the Mississippi
"This is a miracle. It is a literal miracle on the Mississippi," Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry told reporters following the massive rescue operation, which involved firefighters, police, port officials, the Coast Guard, and emergency medical teams.
American Cruise Lines confirmed the incident, stating that guests and crew were safely evacuated and expressing deep concern for everyone involved.
The company later noted that all affected individuals were being settled into local hotels and provided with necessary support.
The cause of the collision remains unclear. The Mississippi River was immediately closed to vessel traffic in the area of the incident, and the US Coast Guard, alongside the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), has launched a full investigation into the crash.
(Source: Agencies)
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