Cruise ship capsizes after crashing into tanker as urgent rescue effort launched

A cruise ship has capsized after a tanker crashed into the vessel as an urgent rescue effort is launched.

At least 32 people have been left injured after the shocking collision along the Mississippi River in New Orleans earlier today.

American Cruise Lines confirmed its river boat, American Heritage, was involved in a collision while it was docked on Friday.

The ship had 129 passengers on board at the time of the collision.

Emergency services swarmed the scene as officers were dispatched to carry out a major rescue operation to find survivors.

New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno confirmed 32 passengers were taken to a nearby hospital, none of whom sustained serious injuries.

Zero passengers are unaccounted for, she added.

American Cruise Lines confirmed its riverboat was involved in a collision.

A spokesman said: "We are in close coordination with the US Coast Guard and local authorities.

"Guests and crew were evacuated, and we are deeply concerned for everyone involved. We will share more information as it becomes available."

The Port of New Orleans has not yet commented on the incident

US Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin wrote on social media that the department is "throwing every asset we have to helping rescue missing passengers".

He added that his department was coordinating closely with state officials.

More to follow...