Car crashes into Louisiana Lao New Year parade, injuring 15

Driver charged with DUI after allegedly plowing into crowd during festival celebration

Apr. 5, 2026 at 11:38pm

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A 57-year-old man has been charged with driving while impaired after allegedly crashing his car into a Lao New Year parade in Broussard, Louisiana, injuring at least 15 people who were celebrating the annual festival.

Why it matters

The Lao New Year parade is a major cultural event for the Lao community in Louisiana, and the crash has disrupted the festival and caused significant injuries, raising concerns about public safety and the need for better traffic control measures during large community events.

The details

According to authorities, the incident took place on Saturday at Savannakhet Street and Melancon Road in Broussard, near New Iberia. The driver, Todd Landry, was taken into custody and charged with 18 counts of first-degree vehicular negligent injuring, as well as one count each of possession of alcohol in a vehicle and careless driving.

  • The incident occurred on Saturday during the Lao New Year parade in Broussard, Louisiana.
  • Event organizers announced the cancellation of the festival's night concerts after the crash.

The players

Todd Landry

A 57-year-old man who has been charged with driving while impaired after allegedly crashing his car into the Lao New Year parade in Broussard, Louisiana.

Iberia Parish Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency that is investigating the incident and has charged Todd Landry with multiple offenses.

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What they’re saying

“The incident does not appear to be an intentional act.”

— Rebecca Melancon, Spokesperson for the Iberia Parish Sheriff's Office

What’s next

Organizers plan to continue with the festival's religious services on Sunday and allow vendors to participate if security is restored.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the importance of traffic safety measures and crowd control during large community events, as well as the need for greater awareness and support for Lao cultural celebrations in Louisiana.