New Orleans boat crash live: all passengers and crew found alive in ‘miracle on the Mississippi’

A tanker collided with American Cruise Lines’ American Heritage on the Mississippi River in New Orleans on Friday, leaving the cruise liner taking on water and turning on its side. The incident prompted a large rescue response; the article’s headline says all passengers and crew were found alive, a striking outcome given the danger.

The vessel was carrying 129 passengers, as well as crew. Helicopters and ambulances were at the scene, while officials prepared a news conference that was delayed. The cause was not confirmed; a source suggested the tanker may have lost power, and maritime experts said steering or engine failure were possibilities.