Tanker Collision Leaves New Orleans Riverboat Listing

The Atlantic Asphalt tanker struck American Cruise Lines’ riverboat American Heritage around 12:30 p.m. Friday while it was docked on the Mississippi River in New Orleans and preparing to disembark passengers. About 129 passengers and crew were aboard; the riverboat took on water and listed sharply, and some people reportedly entered the river as rescue operations began. Authorities and the cruise line said passengers and crew were evacuated and taken to the Port of New Orleans administration building for assistance and medical checks. The Coast Guard, fire and police departments, and medical personnel responded. Officials had not confirmed injuries, deaths, or the cause of the collision in the reports provided.