Vehicle Strikes Crowd at Louisiana Parade, Injuring Over a Dozen
On Saturday, a tragic incident occurred during the Louisiana Lao New Year Festival parade, injuring over a dozen attendees. The parade took place in Iberia Parish, specifically near New Iberia and Broussard. Authorities reported that a vehicle struck multiple pedestrians around 2:30 p.m.
Details of the Incident
The local sheriff’s office confirmed that fifteen individuals sustained injuries, some of which are serious. The driver, a 57-year-old man from Jeanerette, is in custody. Preliminary investigations suggest that the incident was not intentional, despite the driver exhibiting signs of impairment.
Legal Charges and Investigation
- The driver was charged with multiple offenses, including:
- Driving while impaired
- First-degree negligent injuring
- Careless operation
- Open container violation
- The Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office has reached out to the Louisiana State Police for further updates on the victims’ conditions.
Impact on Festival
The Louisiana Lao New Year Festival expressed profound sadness over the incident. The festival, which began on Friday, is known for its vibrant celebration of Laotian culture, featuring Southeast Asian food, live entertainment, and a parade.
Following the tragedy, the festival canceled Saturday evening’s music programs. However, vendors remained open until 9 p.m. The organizers stated they are waiting for updates from law enforcement to decide whether to continue the festival on Sunday.
Community Reactions
Officials, including Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry and Attorney General Liz Murrill, shared their condolences. They emphasized their prayers for the victims and their families and praised the first responders on the scene.
Witness Eli Anderson recounted the chaotic moment, describing how he narrowly avoided being hit as the vehicle approached during the parade. He noted that many festival-goers initially thought the driver was simply joining the festivities.
Conclusion
This incident highlights the need for enhanced safety measures at public events. The community remains hopeful for the swift recovery of the injured individuals and is coming together to support those affected.
