OMM Newsroom
A cargo tanker struck a passenger cruise ship on the Mississippi River in New Orleans, United States, on Nov. 13 around midday. Some people aboard fell into the water during the collision, while others tried to leave the vessel. Thirty-two people were hospitalized after the incident, none in critical condition, AnewZ reported.
New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno said everyone on board was rescued after the collision. She described the outcome as “a miracle on the Mississippi.”
Moreno said the tanker “Atlantic Asphalt” lost control and hit the cruise ship, which was stationary. After passengers began leaving, the vessel started to sink, then capsized and threw people into the river.
Port Police Chief Melanie Montroll said about 87 passengers had left the vessel before it capsized, according to local media. Moreno said there had been about 180 to 190 passengers and crew members on board. The “American Cruise Lines” website says the ship was built in 2015 and has capacity for 150 passengers.
The U.S. Coast Guard said river traffic had been halted near the scene after the collision. Moreno said the swift response by firefighters and the Coast Guard, as well as assistance from people on other vessels, helped prevent fatalities.
In a written statement, “American Cruise Lines” said it was coordinating with the Coast Guard and local authorities. “Passengers and crew have been evacuated, and we are deeply concerned about everyone involved in the incident,” the company said.
