Drunk Driver Strikes Parade Crowd in Louisiana

Around 15 people injured at annual Lao New Year celebration

Apr. 5, 2026 at 3:48pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a shattered car side mirror reflecting the flashing lights of emergency vehicles, conceptually illustrating the aftermath of a drunk driving incident that injured parade-goers.The aftermath of a drunk driver striking a parade crowd in rural Louisiana exposes the tragic human cost of impaired driving.Jeanerette Today

A 57-year-old driver from Jeanerette, Louisiana has been charged with impaired, negligent, and careless driving after striking a crowd of parade-goers at an annual Lao New Year celebration in the rural communities of Broussard and New Iberia. Approximately 15 people were injured, some seriously, when the vehicle veered off the parade route and into the crowd.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing dangers of drunk driving and the need for increased safety measures at large public events. The Lao New Year parade is a beloved annual tradition in this tight-knit Laotian community, making the incident all the more tragic.

The details

According to authorities, the driver appeared impaired when police arrived on the scene and later tested positive for a high blood alcohol level. Video footage showed the vehicle striking multiple people before ending up in a ditch along the parade route. Firefighters were seen tending to one person trapped beneath the car.

  • The incident occurred on Saturday during the annual Lao New Year parade celebration.
  • The three-day Lao New Year festivities take place each year in the Lanxang Village near New Iberia.

The players

Iberia Parish Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency investigating the incident.

Louisiana State Police

The state police force that charged the driver with multiple offenses.

Lanxang Village

A Laotian neighborhood near New Iberia that hosts the annual Lao New Year parade and celebration.

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What they’re saying

“Based on the preliminary investigation, this does not appear to be an intentional act.”

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

What’s next

The driver is expected to face a judge in the coming days to determine if he will be allowed out on bail pending further legal proceedings.

The takeaway

This tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the devastating consequences of drunk driving, especially at crowded public events. It underscores the need for stricter enforcement, harsher penalties, and greater public awareness to prevent such senseless acts from occurring in the future.