All passengers rescued after cruise ship and tanker collide in New Orleans

A total of 130 people were rescued from the American Heritage cruise ship after it collided with the Atlantic Asphalt tanker in New Orleans. The incident left the riverboat resting on its side in the Mississippi River.

Emergency teams transported 32 individuals from the cruise ship to hospital for non-critical injuries. Port of New Orleans Chief Melanie Montroll stated that reports of the crash were received at approximately 13:30 EST (18:30 GMT) on Friday as witnesses rushed to assist passengers escaping the sinking vessel.

US Coast Guard Captain Melanie Burnham noted that the cause of the accident is currently being investigated, stating, "There seems to be some type of a loss of steering." New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno praised the first responders who "literally jumped right in to help" during a press briefing.

Mayor Moreno further described the successful evacuation as a "miracle on the Mississippi," confirming that all individuals have been accounted for.