American Heritage Capsizes After Tanker Collision in New Orleans

The American Heritage riverboat capsized at the Port of New Orleans on November 13 after the tanker Atlantic Asphalt struck it while it was docked, sending people into the Mississippi River. Mayor Helena Moreno said everyone aboard was accounted for and 32 people were taken to hospitals, none with critical injuries.

The collision occurred at about 12:30 p.m. local time, according to the Port of New Orleans. The port said approximately 129 passengers were aboard, in addition to crew. Some early reports gave a higher figure, but the port’s count was for passengers and did not include crew.

The American Heritage, operated by American Cruise Lines, had been docked and was beginning to unload passengers when it was hit. The vessel took on water, rolled onto its side and capsized alongside the dock, according to later reports. A witness said the boat rolled over about 15 minutes after impact.

Rescuers from local agencies, the U.S. Coast Guard and nearby vessels helped people from the water and the stricken boat. The Port of New Orleans Administration Building was used to bring people inside for assistance and medical evaluation. The Coast Guard closed the Mississippi River to vessel...