Emergency crews from multiple agencies responded Friday afternoon after a tanker vessel collided with a passenger boat carrying approximately 129 people on the Mississippi River near the Crescent City Connection in New Orleans.
According to officials, the passenger vessel, identified as the American Heritage, was in the process of disembarking when the collision occurred around 12:30 p.m.
The incident triggered a large-scale emergency response involving Port NOLA Harbor Police, the New Orleans Fire Department, the New Orleans Police Department, the U.S. Coast Guard, and emergency medical personnel.
Rescue Operations Underway
Authorities confirmed that multiple passengers were rescued following the collision, while search-and-rescue efforts continued in the hours after the crash.
City officials said emergency agencies were focused on ensuring the safety of everyone involved.
“Our immediate priority is the safety and rescue of those involved,” officials said, noting that the situation remained active as responders worked along the river.
Passengers Taken for Evaluation
Passengers from the vessel were transported to the Port of New Orleans Administration Building for medical evaluation, assistance, and triage.
Louisiana Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser said the Creole Queen steamboat assisted with rescue efforts and reported recovering at least 14 people from the water.
Officials have not yet confirmed the number of injuries.
Cause of Collision Not Yet Known
Authorities emphasized that the circumstances leading to the collision remain under investigation.
Port officials described the event as an evolving situation and said it was too early to determine what caused the tanker and passenger vessel to collide.
Investigators are expected to examine vessel movements, river conditions, and other factors as part of the inquiry.
Incident Shuts Down Busy Stretch of River
The collision occurred near the Crescent City Connection, one of the busiest sections of the Mississippi River that passes through New Orleans.
Emergency vessels, rescue teams, and law enforcement officers remained on scene as operations continued throughout the afternoon.
Officials said additional information would be released as rescue efforts progress and investigators gather more details about the incident.
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