A tanker struck a docked American Cruise Lines boat on the Mississippi River at the Port of New Orleans, prompting a large emergency response and a search-and-rescue operation, officials said.
The tanker Atlantic Asphalt hit the riverboat American Heritage at about 12:30 p.m. Friday outside 1350 Port of New Orleans Place, according to the Port of New Orleans. The riverboat had docked about two hours earlier to begin letting passengers off.
About 129 passengers were aboard in addition to crew members, the port said.
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New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno’s office said multiple people were rescued and search-and-rescue operations were ongoing.
Port NOLA Harbor Police, the New Orleans Fire Department, the New Orleans Police Department, the U.S. Coast Guard and emergency medical personnel were on the scene, the port said.
Rescued passengers were taken inside the Port of New Orleans Administration Building.
Video shared on social media appeared to show the riverboat tipping to one side and taking on water. Officials had not confirmed whether the vessel sank.
American Cruise Lines said guests and crew were saved.
“We are in close coordination with the U.S. Coast Guard and local authorities,” the company said in a statement. “Guests and crew were evacuated, and we are deeply concerned for everyone involved.”
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