At least fifteen people have been injured, with two requiring airlift to hospital, after an allegedly intoxicated driver ploughed into a crowd celebrating the Lao New Year festival in Louisiana. The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon during a parade in Lanexang Village, outside Broussard, approximately 140 miles west of New Orleans.
Multiple Serious Injuries Reported
According to the Iberia Parish Sheriff's Office, a vehicle struck multiple pedestrians at the annual Songkran event. Several individuals sustained injuries, some described as serious. Acadian Ambulance confirmed at least two victims were airlifted to local hospitals for urgent treatment.
Driver Arrested and Charged
Police identified the driver as 57-year-old Todd Landry from Jeanerette. He faces eighteen counts, including first-degree negligent injuring, driving while impaired, and careless operation of a vehicle. Authorities stated that, based on a preliminary investigation, they do not believe the act was intentional.
Footage and images shared on social media depicted a blue car amidst the crowd, with several people sitting or lying on the ground nearby. Videos showed individuals bleeding as emergency responders worked to rescue a person trapped beneath the vehicle.
Festival Cancelled Following Tragedy
The Lao New Year Festival, one of the largest gatherings of its kind in the United States, was scheduled to continue through Sunday. However, organisers cancelled remaining events for Saturday in the interest of public safety. In a statement, they expressed being profoundly saddened and redirected all security resources to the scene.
We are praying for the victims and for their families during this difficult time, the statement added, noting they await further details from authorities.
Officials Offer Support and Prayers
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry and his wife Sharon posted on social media, stating they are praying for all those affected and expressed gratitude to the first responders. State Attorney General Liz Murrill issued a similar message of support, adding she would follow up with local law enforcement on the issue.
Historical Context of New Year Tragedies
This incident evokes memories of previous tragedies during New Year celebrations in Louisiana. On January 1, 2025, a terror attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans resulted in fourteen fatalities and thirty injuries. The perpetrator, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, reportedly inspired by ISIS, drove a truck into the crowded street before being killed in a firefight with police.
The Lanexang Village community, home to a growing Lao population established over forty years ago with refugee resettlement assistance, now grapples with this latest devastating event during what should be a joyous cultural celebration.
