Sun, 05 Apr 2026 14:27:10 +0000
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by Elena Vance -

Vehicle plows into Lao New Year parade in Louisiana, injuring about 15; driver charged with impairment

New Iberia — A vehicle struck parade participants at a Lao New Year celebration in Iberia Parish (New Iberia/Broussard) on April 4, 2026. About 15 people were injured, some seriously; multiple victims were taken to hospitals and at least two were airlifted.

The driver, a 57-year-old Jeanerette resident, was taken into custody and subsequently charged after appearing impaired and testing with a high blood alcohol level.

Iberia Parish Sheriff's Office and festival organizers said the preliminary investigation does not appear to show an intentional act; afternoon/evening festival events were canceled. The call to emergency services occurred around 2:30 p.m. local time on April 4, 2026, and Acadian Ambulance reported sending multiple ambulances and a helicopter (per AP).

The incident occurred near the Lanxang Village festival grounds, an annual Lao New Year celebration that draws hundreds of families.

“Based on the preliminary investigation, this does not appear to be an intentional act.” Rebecca Melancon, Iberia Parish Sheriff's Office spokesperson said.