New Orleans – A dramatic collision on the Mississippi River on Saturday night left the American Heritage riverboat capsized after being struck by the Atlantic Asphalt tanker. Despite the chaos, all passengers, crew and the responding harbor police and firefighters were safely removed from the water.
Rescue effort
Officials said the rescue operation lasted nearly 45 minutes. More than 100 people remained on board when the vessel listed, including harbor police officers and New Orleans firefighters. Thirty individuals – passengers and two harbor police officers – were taken to local hospitals for treatment.
Survivors were gathered in a conference room for a headcount. Kenneth St. Charles, regional CEO of the American Red Cross Louisiana, confirmed that the organization had a manifest of everyone on the cruise and was conducting roll call. “Everyone who was responding seemed to be in good spirits,” St. Charles said, noting the enthusiasm of the rescuers.
First responders on the scene
Michael Hecht, CEO of Greater New Orleans Inc., described how port employees were the first to react, sprinting to the riverbank and tossing life preservers to those in the water. A Regional Transit Authority ferry pulled a survivor to safety, and nearby vessels also rushed to assist, helping to pull people from the capsized hull.
“It definitely made a difference in our rescue efforts to get the rest of the people out of the water,” a harbor police official said.
Firefighters’ actions
Aaron Mischler of the New Orleans Fire Department union recounted how firefighters on the riverboat were helping passengers off when the boat began to list. “They saw the ladders moving away from the dock,” Mischler explained. “So the guys on the shore removed the ladders to stop people from trying to jump, and that’s when our guys grabbed onto the railings, pulled the few people next to them into the railings as the boat listed over… inside the water.”
Passenger accounts
Workers on the American Heritage reported that the tanker struck the riverboat within seconds of dropping anchor and sounding its horn. Lunch service had just begun; windows shattered on impact and the restaurant filled with knee‑deep water. Passengers escaped through an emergency exit, swam to the wharf and climbed up ropes and ladders dropped by first responders.
Two other passengers described the tanker’s horn as so loud it shook the boat. They noted that the restaurant was inundated within seconds, and they managed to get out, swim to the riverbank and climb out using the ladders and ropes provided.
Both groups said they did not see any children or families on board, but observed many elderly passengers. They described the scene as terrifying, noting they were covered in mud and their clothing was soaked.
Aftercare and support
Work continues to clear the disabled vessels, treat those in the hospital and reunite survivors with their families. “It was really important to get blankets and get them to a warm environment quickly,” said a relief coordinator named Avegno. “We’re working with the Salvation Army and Red Cross to provide clean, dry clothing.”
Mental‑health counselors were also on site to help passengers, crew and first responders process the trauma of the incident.
Investigation
The cause of the collision is under investigation by local authorities. Early reports indicate the tanker’s horn was sounded just before impact, but a full inquiry will determine responsibility and any needed safety improvements.
The American Heritage riverboat, operated by American Cruise Lines, will remain out of service until the investigation is complete and the vessel is deemed safe for future voyages.
Original reporting: FOX10 WALA Mobile (news) — read the source article.
