NEW ORLEANS — The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) held a second press briefing Sunday at 3 p.m. to update the public on the November 13 maritime accident that sent the riverboat cruise ship American Heritage capsizing on the Mississippi River.
What happened
According to the NTSB, the tanker Atlantic Asphalt lost control while passing beneath the Crescent City Connection bridge. The vessel veered to the right and struck the docked American Heritage, causing the riverboat to overturn.
Casualties and medical status
Officials confirmed that the riverboat carried 191 passengers and crew at the time of the collision. All individuals were safely evacuated from the sinking vessel. Of the 32 survivors who were hospitalized, only six remained in care as of Sunday. Two of those patients were listed as serious but stable, according to New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno.
Local response and assistance
Mayor Moreno, Governor Jeff Landry, the U.S. Coast Guard, the Port of New Orleans, and the New Orleans Police Department have been praised for their rapid response. The city’s 311 system transferred family‑assistance inquiries to a dedicated hotline operated by American Cruise Lines, reachable at (203) 487‑9252.
American Cruise Lines issued its first public statement, expressing gratitude for first responders and highlighting the actions of Captain Leonard Stewart, who remained on the bridge to coordinate rescue efforts. The company also noted that 50 hotel rooms at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside remain occupied by passengers awaiting travel arrangements.
Safety zone and navigation restrictions
The U.S. Coast Guard continues to lead river operations. A safety zone is in effect from Mile Marker 95.5 to Mile Marker 96.5, extending 500 feet outward. All deep‑draft vessels and towboats with ten or more barges must transit the zone using one‑way traffic and must coordinate with Vessel Traffic Service Lower Mississippi River, proceeding at the slowest safe speed.
Next steps
The NTSB’s investigation remains ongoing. The board will work with the Coast Guard, the port authority, and American Cruise Lines to determine the cause of the tanker’s loss of control and to recommend measures that could prevent similar incidents on the nation’s inland waterways.
Residents and visitors with questions about the incident or assistance for affected families are encouraged to contact American Cruise Lines directly. The city will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available.
Original reporting: FOX10 WALA Mobile (news) — read the source article.
