NTSB recovers data recorder from tanker in New Orleans cruise ship collision

Nine individuals continue to be hospitalized after a 191-passenger vessel was struck and sank on the Mississippi River, according to updated information released on November 15, 2026. Emergency responders rescued approximately 100 people from the water, although no fatalities were reported. New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno stated that thirty-two individuals required hospitalization, with nine of them still hospitalized as of Saturday afternoon.

The incident occurred on Friday when the passenger vessel collided with a docked paddle-wheeler, resulting in the latter sinking. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has commenced an investigation to determine the cause of the accident. As part of their efforts, investigators have recovered the voyage data recorder from the tanker involved in the collision, the Atlantic Asphalt.

This recorder captures crucial information such as the vessel's speed, direction, course, and audio from the bridge, as well as other operational data.

NTSB member John DeLeeuw reported on Sunday that 16 investigators are present at the scene and are arranging interviews with those involved in the incident. He also urged the public to submit any video footage of the collision to the agency to aid in the investigation. The sunken American Heritage is expected to take several weeks to be removed from the site, and the NTSB investigation is anticipated to delve into the circumstances leading to the collision and the events that ensued.