NEW IBERIA, La. (WAFB) – A driver is in custody, accused of slamming into a crowd during a parade.
Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office said it does not seem to be an intentional act.
The car stopped in the ditch is said to be the vehicle that was driven into the crowd.(Sadie Rosonet)
The call came out around 2:40 p.m. on Saturday, April 4, during the Louisiana Lao New Year Festival in Broussard.
Louisiana Lao New Year Festival(Made with Google AI)
The organizers of the Louisiana Lao New Year Festival released a statement Saturday evening:
“We are profoundly saddened by the news of the incident near the festival grounds.”
The crowd was gathered for a parade near Captain Cade and Melancon Road in New Iberia.
IPSO confirmed 15 people were hurt. 13 patients were taken to the hospital by Acadian. At least four of them are in critical condition, according to Acadian.
Acadian is responding to New Iberia (LA) where a vehicle hit several parade participants. Initial response was 7 ambulances and 1 Air Med helo. We are sending 3 more ambulances and an addl helicopter
— Acadian Ambulance (@AcadianNews) April 4, 2026
Acadian reports that at least seven ambulances were initially called to the scene, and one Air Med helicopter. They then sent an additional three ambulances as well as an additional helicopter.
Final update from New Iberia incident. Acadian transported a total of 11 patients by ground and two patients by air.
— Acadian Ambulance (@AcadianNews) April 4, 2026
Acadian took 11 of the 13 patients by ambulance. Two patients were flown to the hospital.
Scene at Lao New Year Festival after a driver hit a crowd during a parade.(KATC)
All festival events, including concerts scheduled for Saturday night, have been canceled. Vendors will remain open until 9 p.m., but there will not be any alcohol sales.
The festival plans to reopen on Sunday for religious services if security resources are available.
Click here to report a typo. Please include the headline.
Click here to subscribe to our WAFB 9 News daily digest and breaking news alerts delivered straight to your email inbox.
Watch the latest WAFB news and weather now.
Copyright 2026 WAFB. All rights reserved.