Officials say a tanker's steering failed before it crashed into a cruise ship in New Orleans

U.S. government safety officials stated on Sunday that a tanker's steering system malfunctioned, causing it to collide with a cruise ship anchored in New Orleans. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) provided the initial information on the cause of the Friday crash, which resulted in passengers, crew, and two police officers falling into the Mississippi River.

NTSB officials indicated during a briefing in New Orleans that the exact reason for the steering failure remains unknown and is under close investigation. The 520-foot-long tanker had a crew of 19, while the 300-foot-long cruise ship carried 140 passengers and 50 crew members. Thirty-two individuals were taken to the hospital, including the two police officers who were thrown into the river, but none of the injuries were life-threatening.

Six people remained hospitalized as of Sunday. NTSB investigator Bart Barnum explained that the tanker's steering problem led its rudder to remain in a starboard position, causing the tanker to drift towards the east bank of the river, where it collided with the cruise ship approximately two minutes after the rudder became stuck.

Barnum further stated that audio recordings captured on the tanker's ship data recorder included the ship's whistle, warning messages, and emergency radio communications. NTSB member John DeLeeuw called upon the public to submit any photos or videos of the crash to assist with the ongoing investigation, which is expected to culminate in a preliminary report within 30 days.

DeLeeuw also commended the prompt and efficient response from various federal, state, and private vessels that assisted in rescuing people immediately following the incident. The Board of Commissioners of the Port of New Orleans filed a federal lawsuit shortly after the crash, claiming at least $1 million in damages to its terminal. A warrant was issued, granting federal officials temporary control of the tanker.