More than a dozen people were injured when a car plowed through a crowd gathered for a cultural parade and festival in New Iberia, Louisiana Saturday, according to cops and local reports.
At least 15 people were wounded including some in critical condition after the vehicle barreled through parade-goers at the Lao New Year Festival, according to the Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office and News15.
A suspect was arrested after the incident. Facebook/Bubblez Laila
At least 15 people were wounded. X/BLT21_
Two of the victims were airlifted to the hospital, Acadian Ambulance said on X.
Officers took the driver into custody following the terrifying crash, which happened near the corner of Savannakhet Street and Melancon Road, the sheriff said.
The crash is not believed to have been an intentional act, the sheriff’s office added.
Deputies are investigating if the driver may have been drunk, but nothing has been confirmed yet, according to News15.
The parade was part of an annual three-day festival held in Lanexang Village each Easter weekend to celebrate the Lao New Year. The event — the largest of its kind in the US — has been held since the 1980s when it began as a small block party catering to the area’s growing Lao community, according to NOLA.
Festival organizers canceled the evening’s planned music programs and concerts, as well as alcohol sales.
“We are profoundly saddened by the news of the incident near the festival grounds,” the organizers said on Facebook. “We are praying for the victims and for their families during this difficult time.”
Elected officials also offered support for the victims of the crash.
“Sharon and I are praying for all those affected, and are grateful for the first responders who have responded to the scene,” Gov. Jeff Landry wrote on X.