The Port of New Orleans has filed a federal lawsuit against the owners and managers of a tanker that collided with a docked cruise ship on Friday, seeking over $1 million in damages. The lawsuit, filed in the Eastern District of Louisiana, claims the tanker was at fault for the crash that led to the rescue of more than 100 passengers from the Mississippi River and caused significant damage to the port terminal.
Collision and Rescue
The paddlewheel cruise ship American Heritage was left partially submerged after being struck by the cargo vessel Atlantic Asphalt on Friday afternoon. The collision resulted in 32 people being hospitalized with non-critical injuries, but all passengers and crew were accounted for. Officials praised the rescue efforts as a "miracle on the Mississippi." The US Coast Guard reported that the tanker appeared to have suffered a loss of steering, though the exact cause remains under investigation.
Lawsuit Details
The lawsuit names the tanker, its owner Nave Shipping SA, and its management company Thome Ship Management Pte Ltd as defendants. It alleges negligence and seeks compensation for cleanup, inspections, repairs, and other expenses. The port is also requesting that the tanker be seized and sold to cover the damages. Nave Shipping is a subsidiary of the China State Shipbuilding Corporation, which has been contacted for comment. Thome Ship Management stated that its crew is safe and that it is cooperating with authorities.
Passengers and Response
At the time of the collision, the American Heritage was carrying about 129 passengers and crew, nearing the end of an eight-day cruise. Rescue teams, including tugboat operators and police, quickly responded, and river traffic was temporarily halted. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed.
The incident has raised questions about maritime safety, and the lawsuit underscores the financial repercussions of such accidents. As investigations continue, the port authority aims to recover costs and prevent future occurrences.
