Vehicle Strikes Crowd at Louisiana Lao New Year Parade, Injuring Multiple Attendees

A vehicle struck attendees at the Louisiana Lao New Year Festival parade on Saturday, injuring approximately 15 people, some seriously, according to the Iberia Parish Sheriff's Office. The incident occurred in the Lanxang Village area near New Iberia.

Emergency services responded promptly, with Acadian Ambulance dispatching 10 ambulances and a helicopter to the scene. Two patients were airlifted for medical treatment. The driver involved is in police custody, and preliminary investigations suggest the act was unintentional. Rebecca Melancon, a spokesperson for the sheriff's office, stated, "Based on the preliminary investigation, this does not appear to be an intentional act."

The Louisiana Lao New Year Festival is an annual three-day event celebrating Laotian culture, featuring parades, traditional cuisine, and live music. Following the incident, organizers expressed their sorrow and announced the cancellation of Saturday night's musical performances, citing public safety concerns. They indicated that religious services and vendor operations might resume on Sunday if security resources are restored.

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry commented on the situation, stating, "Sharon and I are praying for all those affected, and are grateful for the first responders who have responded to the scene." The investigation into the incident is ongoing.