Rescue efforts are underway after a tanker collided with a river cruise ship that was docked along the Mississippi River in New Orleans on Friday afternoon.
American Cruise Lines' American Heritage was carrying more than 130 people when it was struck by the Atlantic Asphalt tanker around 12:30 p.m. local time.
It's not known how many were injured, but more than a dozen people have been taken to local hospitals for treatment, according to WDSU News.
"American Cruise Lines can confirm that our riverboat, American Heritage, was involved in a collision while it was docked in New Orleans," the cruise line said in a statement. "We are in close coordination with the U.S. Coast Guard and local authorities. Guests and crew were evacuated, and we are deeply concerned for everyone involved."
Dramatic footage captured from the scene showed emergency responders helping victims from the water near the partially submerged riverboat.
"Our immediate priority is the safety of all passengers, crew members and first responders," the Port of New Orleans stated. "This remains an active and evolving incident. The number of injuries and the cause of the collision have not yet been confirmed. Additional updates will be provided as information is confirmed."
The U.S. Coast Guard announced a partial river closure due to the incident.
"The U.S. Coast Guard, in coordination with local response partners, is responding to a vessel collision involving a tanker and a cruise ship near mile marker 96 on the Mississippi River," authorities said. "The river is closed to all vessel traffic between mile markers 93 and 96 while responders assess the situation and conduct response operations."
Ferry service has also been suspended and local officials are working to secure hotel rooms for impacted passengers.
Topics From This Article to Explore
