Vehicle Strikes Crowd at Louisiana Lao New Year Parade, Injuring Multiple Attendees
A vehicle collided with participants at a Lao New Year parade in New Iberia, Louisiana, resulting in multiple injuries; authorities have arrested the driver on charges including impaired driving.
A vehicle struck participants at a Lao New Year parade in New Iberia, Louisiana, on Saturday, injuring approximately 15 individuals, some seriously. The incident occurred around 2:30 p.m. during the annual celebration in Iberia Parish.
The driver, identified as 57-year-old Todd Landry of Jeanerette, was arrested and charged with 18 counts of first-degree negligent injuring, driving while impaired, careless operation, and open container violations. Authorities reported that Landry exhibited signs of impairment and registered a blood alcohol content of 0.137%.
Emergency response included 10 ambulances and two medical helicopters. Acadian Ambulance transported 11 patients by ground and airlifted two others.
The Iberia Parish Sheriff's Office stated that the incident does not appear to be intentional.
Festival organizers canceled Saturday's musical events but allowed vendors to remain open until 9 p.m. They expressed their condolences and indicated that, pending security resources, religious services and vendor operations would resume on Sunday.
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry expressed support for those affected and gratitude toward first responders.
The Lao New Year Festival is an annual event celebrating Laotian culture, featuring live music, food vendors, and a beauty pageant. New Iberia hosts a vibrant Lao community, with the Lanexang Village neighborhood being home to hundreds of Laotian residents.