Emergency services are responding to a developing situation in New Orleans on Friday afternoon after a tanker has collided with a smaller cruise ship while docked.
At approximately 12:30 PM on November 13, the Atlantic Asphalt tanker hit the much smaller American Heritage cruise ship, which has a capacity of 150 guests. Multiple videos posted on social media show the cruise ship completely capsized on its side next to the pier.
Authorities are focused on search and rescue to ensure everyone onboard is safe. There have not yet been details released on any confirmed injuries.
The New Orleans Fire Department stated, “Multiple individuals have been rescued, and search-and-rescue operations remain ongoing. Public safety agencies are coordinating response efforts, with the immediate priority being the safety and rescue of those involved.“
Atlantic Asphalt was built in 2017 and has a gross tonnage of 14,485, while the American Heritage is known as a Paddlewheel cruise ship that was built in 2015. The cruise ship has a gross tonnage of 2,700.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more details are confirmed.
