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Red Cross, cruise line assists 180 passengers, crewmembers after Mississippi River boat capsizes
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NEW ORLEANS — Relief agencies and cruise officials are working to shelter and support the 180 passengers and crew members evacuated after a tanker slammed into a docked river cruise boat along the Mississippi River on Friday, causing the vessel to capsize.
American Cruise Lines, which operates the river cruise boat American Heritage, said it is placing everyone who was aboard into local hotels and ensuring their immediate needs are met. In a statement, the company thanked its crew, the U.S. Coast Guard and local first responders for their rescue efforts, adding that it remains in close coordination with the Coast Guard, the New Orleans Police Department and other investigating agencies.
Volunteers with the American Red Cross Louisiana Region are also on the scene near the Port of New Orleans, distributing water, snacks and blankets while offering emotional support to displaced guests and staff.
"We are thinking of the passengers, crew members and families who are living through this frightening and uncertain time," the Red Cross said in a statement.
Anyone unable to reach a loved one who may have been aboard the vessel can contact the Red Cross at 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) for family reunification assistance.
The crash occurred around 12:30 p.m. Friday when the tanker Atlantic Asphalt lost steering and struck the American Heritage while passengers were disembarking. The cruise boat began tilting within minutes of the impact and rolled onto its side as emergency crews evacuated those aboard.
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