This is a breaking story and will be updated with new details as they emerge.
A major rescue operation is underway in New Orleans after a tanker collided with a docked river cruise ship, causing the passenger vessel to capsize and partially sink in the Mississippi River.
The accident happened at approximately 12.30pm local time on Friday, 13th November 2026, when the tanker Atlantic Asphalt struck American Cruise Lines’ American Heritage near the Port of New Orleans.
The river cruise ship was carrying approximately 129 passengers, along with crew members, and was reportedly in the process of disembarking guests when the collision occurred.
Footage from the scene shows the much larger tanker striking the side of the passenger vessel, which subsequently rolled onto its side and began taking on water.
Emergency services launched an extensive rescue operation, with passengers seen in the river wearing life jackets and others attempting to reach safety from the overturned vessel.
At least 14 people have reportedly been rescued from the water, while emergency crews continue to assess the situation.
WATCH: New video shows moment the Atlantic Asphalt tanker collides with American Cruise Lines’ American Heritage while the cruise ship is docked on the Mississippi River. https://t.co/SS2mCQGCY5— Scope Report (@ScopeReport_) November 13, 2026
Passengers Rescued As Cruise Ship Overturns
The collision occurred close to the Crescent City Connection bridge, where American Heritage was docked alongside the Mississippi River.
Videos circulating on social media show the tanker approaching the stationary cruise ship before making contact with its side.
The impact caused significant damage, with the passenger vessel beginning to lean before eventually rolling over into the water.
Images taken shortly afterwards show American Heritage lying almost completely on its side, with much of the vessel submerged.
🇺🇸 The tanker Atlantic Asphalt struck the docked river cruise ship American Heritage in New Orleans, leaving it partially submerged or capsized; officials say multiple people were rescued and search and rescue continues.
The collision happened around 12:30 p.m. local time on the Mississippi River as the ship, which carried about 129 passengers plus crew, had docked two hours earlier to begin disembarkation. Mayor Helena Moreno’s office said multiple people were rescued, passengers were taken to the Port of New Orleans administration building for triage, and the Coast Guard closed the river between mile markers 93 and 96. The number of injured and the cause have not been confirmed, and it was not immediately clear whether everyone was accounted for; one report said 12 passengers ended up in the water, which officials have not confirmed.
Reports differ on whether the vessel capsized or is partially submerged, and no official figures on casualties, passengers’ ages or how quickly it sank have been released. T
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