Rescue of 130 passengers after Mississippi River cruise ship capsizes

Around 130 passengers and crew were rescued after the American Heritage cruise ship capsized in the Mississippi River near New Orleans on Friday, with 32 people hospitalized for non‑critical injuries, BBC News reported.

How many people were on board and what injuries were reported?

BBC News said the paddle‑wheeler carried about 129 passengers plus crew, and 32 of those were taken to hospital with injuries that were not life‑threatening.

What caused the vessel to list and who is investigating?

According to BBC News, US Coast Guard Captain Melanie Burnham indicated a loss of steering appears to have been a factor, while the precise cause of the collision remains under investigation.

Who led the rescue effort and how was it described?

First responders, tugboat operators, police and the Coast Guard rushed to the scene, shutting down the river for the operation; Mayor Helena Moreno, Governor Jeff Landry and others described the successful rescue as a "miracle on the Mississippi," BBC News noted.

The collision occurred when the cargo tanker Atlantic Asphalt struck the American Heritage, which then listed and fell onto its side. Witness Jamie Holford told CBS that the impact sounded like “tons of steel crunching” and resembled a scene from the Titanic. President Donald Trump praised the effort on Truth Social, and Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin said the Coast Guard supported local responders.

The American Heritage, operated by American Cruise Lines, can accommodate up to 150 guests and includes a glass‑enclosed restaurant, fitness centre and three lounges, according to its website.